William Stanley “Bill” “Shag” Hentkowski, Jr.

William Stanley “Bill” “Shag” Hentkowski, Jr., age 79, of New Castle, DE, passed away on Friday, October 9, 2026.

Born in Wilmington, DE on January 17, 1947, Bill was the son of the late William Stanley and Anna (Konkowski) Hentkowski, Sr.. He was a graduate of Wilmington High School class of 1965, where he made lifelong friends.  His hobbies included attending car shows, where he was always on the lookout for an AC Ace, volunteering as crew on the Kalmar Nyckel and as a long-standing member of the New Castle Historic Area Commission.  He was extremely proud of the historic house he restored with his wife, Judy, of more than 50 years.

Bill’s career was devoted to HVAC, as a technician, project manager and advisor at Berry Refrigeration.  He was a lifelong learner and made genuine connections wherever he went.

Bill will be lovingly remembered as a husband, father and friend.  His gentle strength, quiet pride and fantastic sense of humor will be greatly missed.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his brother, John W. Hentkowski; and sister, Joan M. Hentkowski Harris. He is survived by his loving wife, Judith (Fritts) Hentkowski; daughters, Elizabeth (Hentkowski) Fisne and Robin Samuel; and grandchildren, Rowan Fisne and Elliott Fisne.

A visitation for family and friends will be held from 9 am until 10 am on Friday, October 16, 2026, at New Castle Presbyterian Church, 25 E. 2^nd St., Historic New Castle, DE, where a memorial service will begin at 10 am. Inurnment will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bill’s name to your local PBS station.