William Charles Barthelmess, affectionately known to many as “Billy B,” passed away peacefully on June 14, 2026, at Saint Mary’s Hospital. He was the beloved husband of Debra (Staib) Barthelmess for almost 50 years.

Bill was born on May 27, 1947, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, the son of late William H. and Madeleine (Chevalier) Barthelmess. He graduated from Bunnell High School in Stratford, CT, Class of 1965, where he formed lasting friendships.

He began his career through a Tool and Die Journeyman apprenticeship and later pursued his love for building by becoming a carpenter apprentice in 1971. He went on to settle down and establish his own custom home building business in Woodbury, Connecticut, where he became widely respected for restoring historic homes throughout Litchfield County. His meticulous attention to detail preserved the authenticity and character of each property. In addition to restorations, Bill built custom architectural homes and spec houses, one being featured in Fine Homebuilding magazine.

Bill originally joined the Bethel Lions Club in 1971, serving as Treasurer, and in 1974 became a dedicated member of the Woodbury Lions Club, where he remained an active and contributing member for over five decades. He held numerous leadership roles, including Club President, and served as the first President of the Woodbury Lions Club Foundation. He was honored as Lion of the Year and received one of the organization’s highest distinctions, the Melvin Jones Award, recognizing his exceptional commitment to service and community impact. Bill was also a member of the Woodbury Business Association since its inception in 1998, served on the Woodbury Public Building Commission since 1977, and as Chairman since 1991.

Beyond his many accomplishments, Bill found great joy in the simple moments. He was happiest when surrounded by good friends and family. One of his favorite experiences was driving the train at Quassy Amusement Park during the summer when his grandchildren were young. Bill enjoyed playing golf and was also a vintage car enthusiast. He loved driving, owning, and restoring several classic cars over the years.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughter, Amy Munn, and her husband, Todd, of Milford, Connecticut, and his cherished grandchildren, Julia and Braden. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Joann Barthelmess of Watertown, Connecticut, his sister-in law and brother-in-law, Janet and Thomas Gall of Southbury, Connecticut. Bill was predeceased by his son, David Barthelmess of Fort Collins, Colorado, and his brother, Kent Barthelmess of Watertown, Connecticut.

Bill will be remembered for awesome Memorial Day parties, extreme generosity, strong work ethic and dedication to friends, family, and community. His legacy lives on in the homes he restored, the organizations he served, and the many lives he touched along the way.

Friends and family may visit on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, from 11:00am until 12:00pm at Munson-Lovetere Funeral Home, 2 School St. Woodbury, CT 06798. A Celebration of Life service will begin at 12:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Bill’s memory to the Woodbury Lions Club P.O Box 314 Woodbury, CT 07698 or the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation www.pulmonaryfibrosis.org