William H. Arquiett

William H. Arquiett, 62, of Felts Mills, New York, passed away on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at Samaritan Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on December 14, 1962, in Watertown, he was the son of Robert and Carmaline (Dilello) Arquiett. William graduated from Carthage Central High School in 1981 and went on to proudly serve 24 years in the United States Air Force, with assignments in Germany, Saudi Arabia, Korea, and stateside.

After retiring from the military, William returned home to Felts Mills, where he purchased the family home and settled near those he loved most. Family was central to his life, and he treasured every moment spent with them.

William had a deep love for Birch’s Lakeside Campground in Cranberry Lake, where he spent countless summers. He enjoyed boating, building docks, lending a hand at the restaurant, and sharing laughs around the fire with friends. Known affectionately as the “Mayor of the Campground,” he was happiest when surrounded by family and friends at the lake. His joy came from simple pleasures—making maple syrup, cutting wood, and restoring his 1970 Buick Skylark—always with those he cared about nearby.

He is survived by his siblings: James and his wife, Jennifer of Carthage; Rose Anderson of Fort Worth, Texas; Gary and his wife Cindy of Carthage; and Christopher of Haines Falls, New York. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, many cousins, and his beloved friends from Cranberry Lake who became like family.

Per William’s wishes, there will be no funeral or calling hours. In keeping with William’s wishes, he will be cremated and return to Cranberry Lake, the place he loved most.

Arrangements are with Bruce Funeral Home, Black River.

Online condolences may be shared at www.brucefuneralhome.com.

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