MOHAWK - Mr. William C. Dygert, a longtime resident of Mohawk, and decorated World War II Veteran passed away. Bill comfortably resided at the Alpine Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Little Falls, where he received special and the most sincere care. The family is so grateful for the extension of all of this kindness during this difficult time. Bill passed away at The Alpine Center on the evening of Thursday August 6, 2015 at the age of 91 years old. Bill's service to our country was such an important aspect of his life. His service time was spent in the South Pacific, particularly upon a light cruiser the U.S.S Miami CL 89. Upon receipt of his honorable discharge as Seaman, First Class, in February of 1946, he was the recipient of numerous awards and citations. Inclusive were the following medals, Liberation of Philippines, two stars, the Asiatic Pacific Campaign, six stars, the American Campaign, the World War II Victory Medal, the New York State Victory Medal upon Conspicuous Service, a Combat Action Ribbon, and a lame duck Honorable Discharge as a tribute to the fact that Bill was actually accidently dropped from the mast of the ship. Born, February 2, 1924 in Herkimer, NY, Bill was a son to the late Charles H. and Marie (Carpenter) Dygert and lived the majority of his life in the Mohawk area. He was a graduate of Mohawk High School, Class of 1946. He went on to attend SUNY Brockport State Teacher's College. Bill's marriage to the former Mary T. Christiano took place on May 11, 1957 in St. Anthony's Church, Herkimer, with the Rev. Gustav Purificato officiating. His working career of over 41 years was attributed to the Library Bureau in Herkimer, where he had started on the line and went on to become a cost accountant. He served as a president of the Local IUE AFL-CIO office worker Union of the LB from 1963 until 1972. Bill absolutely loved his community and served it well. He was active with the Boy Scouts of America Explorer Post 26 of Mohawk, a past president of the Midget League in Mohawk (1963), and a member of the Herkimer Senior Citizens. He was a devoted member to the Blessed Sacrament Church of Mohawk and served as an usher. He truly enjoyed his membership with the Herkimer Knights of Columbus Council 579, having served as Grand Knight and obtained 3rd and 4th Degrees respectively. He donated time to the Meals on Wheels Program and Catholic Charities as well. For many years Bill offered his warmth and sincerity as a greeter with the Applegate Funeral Home. He leaves behind his loving companion of over 58 years, Mary. The surviving family includes, Rosann and Bruce Bartholomew, Thomas and Bonny Brownrigg, Charles and Kay Brownrigg, Edward Dygert, Mary Kay and Bob Wolcott, Michael and Donna Woods, Janice and Ken Cedano, David and Jenny Dygert, Robert Hilts, Josephine Pumilio, Debbie Brownrigg, Thomas Hryb, and several nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. He was predeceased by Mary Lois Brownrigg (Sister), Robert W. Dygert (Brother), George Dygert (Brother), Teresa Woods (Sister), and Agnes Hilts (Sister). Funeral services will be held Tuesday August 11, 2015 at 10:15 AM from The Enea Family Funeral Home, 220 North Washington Street in Herkimer (formerly Holleran Funeral Services) and at 11 a.m. at the Blessed Sacrament Church, East Main Street, Mohawk, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by the Very Rev. Mark Cunningham, sacramental minister, assisted by Sister Mary Jo Tallman, parish life director. Calling hours will be held Monday August 10, 2015 , from 4 until 7 PM at the funeral home at 220 North Washington Street in Herkimer. Bill's medals and several distinguished honors will be on display. The Herkimer Senior Citizens are welcome to pay their respects in a body at 6:00 PM Monday and the Knights of Columbus are asked to kindly offer prayer at 6:30 PM. On Wednesday August 12, 2015 a full military burial service for William C. Dygert S-1/C will be held, at which time the family shall be notified and accompanied by the funeral home staff at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road, Schuylerville, NY. Funeral Directors and Bill's longtime friends Harry J. & Kevin E. Enea, and Donald J. Applegate (315) 866-1011 have arranged services. To leave an online note of sympathy, please visit www.eneafamily.com. Those wishing are asked to consider donations in memory of Bill to a favorite charity of choice. Envelopes are available at the funeral home.