William J. McCarthy

William J. McCarthy, 90, of Watertown, passed away October 17, 2025 at Samaritan Keep Home surrounded by his family.

Mr. McCarthy was born March 14, 1935 in Oswego, NY, son of William N. and Mary (Finch) McCarthy. He graduated from Oswego High School in 1954, SUNY Oswego in 1960 and SUNY Buffalo in 1967 with a masters in science education.

Mr. McCarthy entered the United States Marines in 1954 stationed in Camp Lajjun and Puerto Rico. In 1957 he was honorably discharged.

On May 4, 1957, he married Rae Ann Baker at St. Paul’s Church in Oswego, NY with Rev. Murphy officiating. Mrs. McCarthy died in December 3, 2012. He later married Margaret Tonmeraus on May 10, 2014.

Mr. McCarthy was an Industrial Arts teacher, beginning his career in Rochester during the 1960’s. In 1967, he began his twenty-three years at Watertown High School, until his retirement in 1990.

He was a Scout Leader, Civil War buff and enjoyed being a craftsman. Mr. McCarthy was on the City Environmental Commission, a member of Trout Unlimited and the American Legion Post 61. He loved fly tying, fly fishing and hunting. Most of all he loved spending time at their summer camp in Sackets Harbor.

He is survived by three sons, Dennis (Julie), Rochester, NY, Douglas (Kelly), Ogdensburg, NY and Sean (Tracy), Gouverneur, NY, four grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.

A graveside service with military honors will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025 at 11 am at Glenwood Cemetery. A reception will follow for friends and family. Contributions may be made to the Scouts of America.

Arrangements are with D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. Online condolences may be made to www.dlcalarco.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of William J. McCarthy, please visit our floral store.