William J. Corcoran

July 7, 1950 – September 23, 2023

William John Corcoran, often called Bill or Billy, sometimes called Wild Man Bill, and affectionately known as Cork or Corker, passed from this world surrounded by the love of his children, grandchildren, extended family, and many friends. Bill was born to Elenor (McShea) and William Corcoran in Philadelphia, PA. After his father’s death in 1962, he was enrolled in the Milton Hershey School for Boys, from which he graduated in 1969. After graduation, he earned a degree from Pierce College and served in the Army National Guard for six years. In 1974, he was accepted as a recruit in Class 148 of the Philadelphia Fire Academy. Upon completion, Bill valiantly served his community for over 35 years as a Philadelphia Firefighter, receiving numerous awards and citations for distinguished service.

Bill was the father of four children and the grandfather of six. Upon retirement in 2010, he dedicated his time fully to his family, spending many vacations with them on cruises, at Disney World, and at his shore home. In everything he did, he lived out the Philadelphia Fire Department’s motto of Dedication and Service. He was a dedicated and loving father. He served his family faithfully and with humility. He was a faithful and dedicated friend who was always willing to help. He served many friends and strangers on their road to sobriety, acting as a mentor and a sponsor to others after he had gotten sober in 1987. Bill volunteered in his grandchildren’s schools, with his grandson’s football team, with the PFD Family Association, and with the Philadelphia Chapter of the Milton Hershey Alumni Association. In all things, he was a dedicated servant to others.

Bill is survived by his children, Nicole Zelcs (Brian), Lisa Hogan and William Corcoran (Amy), as well as his grandchildren Brian Zelcs, James Hogan, Colin Hogan, Jocelyn Keely Corcoran, Rowan Hogan, and Ella Rose Hogan, whom he affectionately referred to as “Gracie,” and his great-grandson Mason Fangman. He is also survived by his sisters, Sally Kane and Ellen Mongone, sister-in-law Annette Rock, brothers-in-law, Robert Devine and Christopher Mongone; and many beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elenor and William Corcoran, sister Margaret Devine, brothers-in-law Charles Hayes, James Kane, Joseph Rock, and Patrick Rock, and his beloved and eternally missed nephew, Patrick Devine.

“The man is a success who has lived well, loved much, and laughed often.” -Robert Louis Stevenson

Relatives and friends are invited to greet his family Thursday, September 28, 2023, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at St. Timothy R.C. Church 3001 Levick Street Philadelphia, PA 19149.  His Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will follow Thursday 11:00 at the Church.  Bill will be laid to rest with US Army Honors, at Limerick Garden of Memories 44 E. Arcadia Dr, Limerick, PA 19468.

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