William M. Vater II

He was born on June 13, 1954, in Gouverneur, New York, a son of the late William and Sophie (Jones) Vater. Bill was raised in Star Lake, New York, and was a graduate of the Clifton/Fine High School with the class of 1972.

Following high school, Bill worked on the Great Lakes for 10 years for Hanna Mining Company. He then attended truck driving school in Syracuse, New York. Bill then worked for various contractors driving dump truck until health issues led to his retirement.

On February 21, 1977, he was united in marriage to the former Carol Sten and after 36 years together they parted as friends.

Bill enjoyed camping and spending time with his family and friends.

Preceding him in death were his father, William Vater, his mother and step-father, Sophia and Roland Durocher and his brother, Don Durocher.

Surviving are his children, John (Bridget) Durocher of Valparaiso, Indiana, William (Fawn) Vater III of the Houghton Canal Tammie (Leon) Fraki of the Houghton Canal Jeffrey (Krystel) Vater of Freda, his grandchildren: Ethan, Evan and Ella, his sister: Dottie Durocher (Saatio) of Chassell, his brother: Eric Vater of Star Lake, New York, his former wife: Carol Garnell of Houghton

A graveside service for Bill will be held later this spring in the Liminga Cemetery.

A donation to your favorite charity may be given in memory of Bill.

Bill’s family would like to thank the staff of Canal View-Houghton County/Woodland Haven for the care given to Bill during his stay.

The Memorial Chapel Funeral and Cremation Service of Hancock has been assisting the family with the arrangements.

To view Bill’s obituary or to send condolences to the family please visit memorialchapel.net.