William J. Raus Jr.

July 29, 1939 - January 14, 2021

William J. Raus Jr., 81, of Essex, NY. passed away peacefully at home on January 14th. Born in Syracuse to William J. and Helen C. Raus Sr. Bill graduated from Marcellus Central High School, where he excelled in the Future Farmers of America. He was part owner and operator of Kinland Farm, Marietta NY. He was a member of the Amber Fire Department. In the mid 80’s he leased and managed a 400-acre farm, in Essex. Bill was also a farm consultant for the Adirondack Land Trust in Elizabethtown, NY. President, Vice President and Director of Onondaga County Farm Bureau and President of Essex County Farm Bureau. He also established and managed Farmer’s Markets in Essex and surrounding areas. Most recently, Bill, was employed by the Elizabethtown Community Hospital for fifteen years as an ambulance/transport driver. He will be remembered for his great sense of humor, gift of gab, practical jokes and keen sense of direction. Bill is survived by his soulmate, Loretta Surprenant and five children: Barbara Briggs, Brenda Quinlan, James Raus, Laraine Rapple, William Raus, and step-son Tim Surprenant, eleven grandchildren and three great grandchildren, Two sisters, Jean Finizio, and Joyce Becker, and nephew and nieces. There will be no calling hours/funeral. A memorial celebration will be held later in 2021. Contributions in his memory may be made to: High Peak Hospices 518-891-0606 or Elizabethtown Community Hospital, 75 Park Street Elizabethtown, N.Y. 12932. Arrangements have been entrusted to Heald Funeral Home, 7521 Court St., Elizabethtown.