William DeGroat

William De Groat

October 3, 1922 – September 5, 2026

The End of an Era

William De Groat was born in Stamford, Connecticut, and later moved to New York City. As a young man, he rode a bicycle through the streets of New York delivering messages for Western Union before enlisting in the United States Army at just 17 years old.

William proudly served his country during World War II and was among the brave soldiers who stormed Omaha Beach on D-Day. After the war, he returned home in 1945—fittingly, on his mother’s birthday.

Back in New York, William drove tanker trucks throughout New York City and worked for Slomin’s during the company’s early years. He later married and settled in Massapequa, where in 1953 he started his own electrical business. For the next 30 years, he proudly served families and communities across Long Island.

Throughout his long life, William was a friend and mentor to many. Away from work, he loved hunting and fishing and had a passion for travel that took him around the globe.

William lived a remarkable life—one that witnessed history, served his country, built a business, formed lasting friendships, and touched generations of people along the way. His passing truly marks the end of an era.

A celebration of William’s life will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, on what would have been his 104th birthday, at his home in Wantagh.