To the Editor:

To his grandkids, he was “Big Bill.” To those of us who called him friend, he was just “Bill.”

But Bill Denlinger, who lived, worked, and served his community of Newtown for more than 50 years, held numerous titles during that generous time served. A proud alumnus of UCONN and graduate of its law school, Bill opened his “country law practice” in the late ‘60s. It was at that time that he consciously started giving back to the community that he loved. In whatever endeavor that Bill undertook, he did not just serve, but he led. In whatever he did, he took the lead. It started in the ‘60s with the Jaycee civic organization. After several years of active involvement, he became its president and served the organization and its community with distinction. The titles of president or chairman followed Bill throughout the years through many Newtown civic and town organizations or boards. To name a few were Big Brothers, Park & Recreation, The Board of Education, and The Lions Club. Everyone of these fine organizations has had the imprint of service by Bill Denlinger.

He even found or made time to add “coach” to that list, as he coached his son Jamie in Pop Warner football.

Our town of Newtown should be proud to call Bill Denlinger one of its fine sons… he was generous with his time, his leadership, his talents, and his legal knowledge — and Newtown was his benefactor.

Our town and his family and friends lost Bill last week to a long illness. We are saddened, but we remember him for his friendliness, his loyalty, and yes, his service. Thanks, Bill.

May you rest in peace, my friend.

Dennis J. Farrell, former Newtown resident

9812 SE Crape Myrtle Court, Hobe Sound, Fla.         May 20, 2019