Obituary of William E. McKernan

William E. McKernan, known to some as "Cal" or "Cowboy," a name earned during his youth in Jersey City, NJ, died Thursday, May 17, 2012 at age 90. Born January 26, 1922 in his treasured downtown Jersey City to William E. McKernan and Margaret McCabe, he was predeceased by his beloved sisters, Margaret Dalton, Mary Sharpe and Bernadette Morrissey. He is survived by "his Doll," Alma (Balinski). Bill served in France in World War II, and was awarded two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star. On Christmas Eve, 1944, he survived the sinking of the torpedoed SS Leopoldville in the English Channel when 764 men died at sea. He married Alma on June 21, 1947 at St. Lucy's Church, Jersey City. Bill had a long career as a Teamster official for Local 617, IBT, where he served for 43 years, first as Secretary Treasurer and then as President. He and Alma had four loving children: Michele, William, Diane and Daniel. The family settled in Parsippany, NJ where they lived for over 30 years. He and Alma moved to their summer home in Monterey Beach, NJ where his family enjoyed many happy memories. They spent winters in Florida where they shared their life with his sisters in law, Marge Marchesa and Maria Balinski, and brother in law, George Balinski. Along with his four children he is survived by his daughters in law, Maritza McKernan and Dina McKernan, and his son in law, Donald Gesicki. He was blessed with nine grandchildren, Maggie Letsche, Devin, Brendan & Kyle McKernan, Regina, Paige & William Gesicki and Elizabeth & Andrew McKernan. He is survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Whether he was called Dad, Papa, Bill or Cal, he added light and love to the lives of many. He was devoted to St.Jude, who he fervently believed was responsible for his wonderful life. He always described himself as the luckiest man alive. Visitation Tuesday, May 22, 2012, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Tuttle Funeral Home, 272 State Route 10 West, Randolph (www.tuttlefh.com) Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, May 23, 2012, 10:30 AM at St. Therese’s R.C Church, 151 Main Street, Succasunna. Interment will be private.