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William "Bill" C. Probst, 68 of Ramsey NJ, formerly Brooklyn, NY and Morrison, NJ, passed away on November 20, 2020. Known to friends and family as Bill (and Billy to some), he was son of the late Louis and late Helen Probst. He was the younger of two children.
He was born in the Bronx, NY and later the family moved to NJ when Bill was two years old. He attended and graduated from Paramus High School in 1970 after which he graduated with Honors with a BS from Suffolk University in 1974. A true intellectual, Bill furthered his studies, ultimately earning a PhD in Chemistry from New York University. He was a scientist and researcher at heart and was a prolific contributor to the field of chemistry.
Later in life, Dr. Probst transitioned to teaching, wanted to impart his knowledge and love for the sciences to young minds. He taught high school Chemistry and Physics for over 10 years at Lacordaire Academy in Montclair, NJ.
Those who were blessed to have Bill in their life know that he was a thoughtful and caring man. The scientist in him was ever present and he lived by the words, “You must always have a contingency plan”. He loved fishing and happily shared his spoils with friends and family from his annual trips.
Bill was a renaissance man. He enjoyed listening to classical music and attending symphonies as well as riding motorcycles and playing rugby. He also had an appreciation for antique shotguns. He was always ready to lend a helping hand and was a dependable and cherished friend and coworker.
Bill is survived by his daughter Alexandra of Chicago IL, brother Robert of Marietta GA, two nephews Tommy and Bobby, cousins and many friends. He will be forever remembered.
Jill Pepe (Gregory) (1970)
Always so sad to loose a classmate. How it reminds us how precious life is. Bill was always the gentleman and a quiet personality. He enjoyed PHS. Always a smile and a hello in the hallways. Great laugh and enjoyed his friendships. Sorry our reunion was postponed due to Covid. We have lost classmates this year that we will never get to enjoy again. May his family find peace in their sorrow.
Jill Pepe Gregory
Marcia Pelka (1968)
I am so saddened to have read about Billy's repose. He and I would always tease that we looked alike and were brother and sister. We would go fishing in a little pond somewhere in Ridgewood I guess. We rode our bikes for hours and hours on the weekend. He came to my wedding in 1968 and that was the last time I saw him. Over the years I thought of him fondly and smiled at our friendship. Billy will always be in my heart as a true friend. I regret we never kept in touch.
God grant peace to your family. I know you passed last year, but I just heard about it.
Billy, you became what I had always dreamed of: a chemist. Much love to you, sweet Billy.
Eternal be his memory.
☦️
Jill McNish (1970)
I am saddened to learn of Billy's passing. He was part of our neighborhood gang of kids, especially when it came to baseball games. He was sweet and kind and adorable. I had no idea he went on to get a PhD in chemistry, as I recall as a boy he had a severe stuttering issue. So awesome that he prevailed over it. May his memory be a blessing!