William Leo Hargather
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With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Bill Hargather, who left this world after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. Bill passed peacefully on September 3, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was predeceased by his parents, Leo and Mildred (Mickey) Hargather; his sisters, Judy (Joe) Gerew, and Patricia (Richard) Pratt; his brother-in-law, James (Laura) Cotturone; and his sisters-in-law, Emily (Rosario) Tripoli, and Donna (Gerald) Genier. Bill is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Pattie Hargather; his loving children, Patrick (Angela) Hargather, and Amy (Jim) Centola; grandchildren, Karlee Hargather, James Hargather, Alex Centola, and Andrew Centola; and many dear nieces, nephews, godchildren, cousins, and friends.
Bill was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather whose greatest joy came from spending time with his family.
For more than 20 years, Bill served as a dedicated police officer with the City of Rochester, protecting and supporting his community with honor and integrity. Beyond his career, he cherished every moment with his grandchildren, creating memories full of laughter, love, and stories that will be treasured forever.
He loved both playing and watching all sports. He especially enjoyed rooting for his favorite player, Mickey Mantle. His passion for sports was something he eagerly shared with family and friends.
He will be remembered for his strength, humor, and the deep love he held for those closest to him. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of his wife, children, grandchildren, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Friends may call on Monday (Sept 8th) 4PM – 7PM at Vay-Schleich and Meeson, 1075 Long Pond Road. His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday (Sept 9th) at 10:30AM at Our Mother of Sorrows Church, 5000 Mt Read Blvd. Interment will follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, 2461 Lake Avenue. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hildebrandt Hospice Center, 2652 Ridgeway Avenue, Rochester, NY 14626 in his memory.
The Association of Rochester Police and Area Law Enforcement Retirees (ARPALER) send condolences and prayers to the family of Officer William Hargather, and we salute him for his service to his community. Rest in peace Brother.
Very sorry for your loss he was a great man to work and be with!
I knew Billy prior to either of us being Police officers. One great guy, one great cop. I loved his sense of humour .
Lou Rotunno
My Uncle Bill was a great guy, mentor and family man. He was fun to be around and gave me sound advice about life’s challenges and how to handle them. He was a great role model and I will always remember our friendship and times together. Much love Uncle Bill!
So sorry to hear that Billy passed. He was a great cop and a great person with a really good sense of humor. My condolences to family, friends and fellow law enforcement.
I had the absolute pleasure to work with Bill when I was brand new back in 1969. He was always approachable to answer questions and help pave the way. Always fun to be around.
Bill made you laugh just to be around his Irishman proud cop and glad he was beside you. Sleep well my friend.
One of many RPD officers we lost this year. God bless his family.
Billy was a great guy . We worked together for awhile .He will be missed.Nick Penisse
Billy was a great guy . We worked together for awhile .He will be missed.
Bill wrote me a traffic ticket the year before I joined the department! It was for an illegal turn!
After I joined the department there came a time when he worked for me. I reminded him of that! LOL !
We became good friends! God bless you all and help get you past the sadness!
Angela and family,
Kathie and I send our deepest condolences to you and your family. Memories of him will live on. Wishing you peace and comfort during this difficult time.
I was proud to be Bill’s presence, as he was a steady and reliable person. Always had a greeting for anyone he came in contact with. Blessing for Bill, and all his family and friends.
Billy was one of the first officers I worked with when I came on the JOB. He was always very patient and took the time to explain the right way of policing. Over the years That followed we never would work in the same Unit again but I always felt good knowing he was there. God bless Billy and his family.