Obituary: William “Billy” DePalma, 38, of Branford

Obituary courtesy of W. S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home:

William “Billy” DePalma, husband of cherished wife, Vanessa DePalma, beloved son of Mitchell and Kathleen DePalma, loving brother to Patricia and Erwin Franz, uncle to Liam Franz, and pet parent to his loyal dogs, Rogue & Sully.

It is with great sadness to announce the passing of our beloved son, William Lee DePalma, on April 24, 2021. Billy was born on June 13, 1982 in New Haven, CT and raised in Branford, CT.

He graduated from Branford High School where he excelled at numerous sports, but his true passion was ice hockey. He was the star goalie for the Branford Hornets. He also played lacrosse goalie in the first year of the club. He continued to play competitive adult hockey and coached youth teams. His sports accomplishments took him all the way to the Men’s League National Championship in Las Vegas.

Billy lived a phenomenal life traveling across the United States working in sales and telecommunications. He lived in amazing places taking up residency in major cities including Boston, MA, Charlotte, NC, and Orange County, California. He was a brave and free spirit making career moves throughout the nation. Billy loved his family very deeply, particularly his nephew & godson Liam Franz, who brought tremendous joy into his life.

No matter where Billy was in the world, he remained close with his friends and family. His kindness and sensitivity led him to volunteer in the Special Olympics from the time he was a young boy. He enjoyed camping, the outdoors, walking his dogs, boating with his family, and swimming. He made everyone laugh with his funny sense of humor, his witty comebacks, and irresistible charm. He cherished every moment with his beautiful wife, Vanessa, as they were inseparable.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. John Bosco Parish in St. Mary Church, 731 Main Street, Branford, CT at 10:00 AM EST on Wednesday, May 12, 2021.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Psychiatric Adolescent Services Natchaug Hospital located at 189 Storrs Road, Mansfield Center, CT 06250 with attention to Sherry Smardon.