William F. McDonough, 60, of Ballston Spa, NY, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, September 25, 2026, surrounded by love.

Born on July 21, 1966, in Saratoga Springs, NY, William was the beloved son of the late Francis “Max” and Mary McDonough. He earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting from SUNY Plattsburgh and dedicated more than 30 years of service to the NYS Thruway Authority, retiring in July 2023 as Director, Office of Investment and Asset Mgmt.

To know William was to know a man who could light up a room. He had an incredible sense of humor, loved to make people laugh, and had a way of making those around him feel comfortable, happy, and loved. His jokes, his laughter, and his ability to find humor in life will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He was truly one of a kind—an amazing man whose presence made life brighter.

Above all else, William was a devoted husband, father, brother, and uncle who centered his life around his family. He was happiest when he was with the people he loved. He was a constant source of encouragement and support to his children, always their biggest cheerleader and proudest supporter. He coached his son’s Little League and Babe Ruth baseball teams and helped coach his daughter’s softball teams, creating memories that will be cherished forever. He was immensely proud of the adults his children became and the careers they chose serving others. His love for his children was unwavering, and there was nothing he wouldn’t do for them.

William shared 37 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Christine. They were married on July 1, 1989, and built a life filled with love, family, laughter, and adventures. William and Christine loved traveling together and exploring new places, making memories wherever they went.

William was also an avid golfer and a proud member of the Ballston Spa Country Club. Golf was more than a hobby for him—it was something he truly loved. He spent countless enjoyable hours on the course, especially when he was able to share a round with his son, daughter, and brothers. Some of his happiest memories were made surrounded by loved ones, enjoying a beautiful day on the golf course. An avid sports fan, William also spent many fond hours following the NY Yankees, Giants, Knicks and UConn Women's basketball teams with family and friends.

William leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, family, and countless memories. He will be remembered for his generous heart, his incredible sense of humor, his unwavering love for his family, and the way he could make anyone smile. He was an amazing husband, an incredible father, a loving brother and uncle, and a friend to so many. The impact he had on the people around him cannot be put into words. He will be missed more than words can ever express, but the laughter, love, lessons, and memories he gave to those who knew him will live on forever.

William is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Christine; his son, William (Burgandy); his daughter, Meghan (Nicole); his brothers, Robert (Lyn) and Scott; and his sister, Katherine (Jay) McDonough, Brother-In-Laws Dennis (Jennifer), and Brian (Kathleen) Rourke. He is also survived by his dear nieces and nephews: Brandon (Anna), Mercedes (Thomas), Natalie, Nicholas, Emily McDonough, and Emma, Molly, Liam, and Maeve Rourke, along with his Uncle David (Linda) and Uncle Robert (Laurie) Eaton and many loving cousins.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Friday, October 9, 2026, at 10:30 AM at St. Clement’s Church in Saratoga Springs, NY. A private celebration of William’s life will follow for family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in William’s name may be made to Community Hospice of Saratoga, Palliative Care at Saratoga Hospital or John Hopkins Bladder Cancer Research.

Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (518-584-5373).

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com