William E. "Wild Bill" Pajak

PETERSHAM — William Edward “Wild Bill” Pajak, age 89, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2025. He was born in Cambridge, New York.

Affectionately known as “Wild Bill,” he earned his nickname through a spirited personality, a sense of adventure, and a way of living that made stories worth telling. Whether sharing a laugh, lending a hand, or offering one of his memorable tales, Wild Bill had a gift for brightening the days of those around him.

Bill served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, and following his service, he stayed on the West Coast for a time before eventually making his way back east.

He moved to Petersham in 1968, settling into what he proudly called his “forever home,” a place where he built a life rooted in warmth, community, and genuine connection.

He owned and operated Petersham Lumber Company for many years, where he met countless people and built many friendships and connections. After selling the lumber mill, he set up shop at his home and worked for E.J. Prescott, welding various water works products.

For many years Bill maintained a very large garden, taking great pride in his gardening. He also loved tinkering in his workshop, fixing his lawn tractors, working on his backhoe and fishing—as well as chatting with neighbors, finding joy in simple pleasures and everyday moments.

Though Bill did not have children of his own, he played a meaningful and loving role in the lives of many over the years. He took joy in teaching any child that came into his life how to fish. His kindness, humor, and steady presence made him a cherished figure to generations who knew him.

He was predeceased by his parents, Chester Pajak and Alice VanDusen Pajak, his five brothers, John, Leon, Paul, Charles, and George; and his sister, Mary.

He leaves behind two brothers, Lewis Pajak of Phoenix, AZ, and Michael Pajak of Clifton Park, NY; along with a number of nieces and nephews.

William will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love.

A private burial will be held.

Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.

WWW.WITTYFUNERALHOME.COM

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