Patrick William Quinn

Patrick William “PW” “Bill” Quinn September 6, 1935 – September 16, 2025 Patrick William Quinn, affectionately known as “PW” or simply “Bill,” passed away peacefully on September 16, 2025, in Huntsville, Alabama, at the age of 90.

A man of deep faith, unwavering optimism, and boundless curiosity, Bill lived a remarkable life devoted to family, faith, work, and service to others. Born in Johnson City, New York, Bill was the beloved son of William and Sarah Quinn. He graduated from Johnson City High School and continued his studies at Alfred State University, earning a degree in Electrical Engineering. A talented musician, he enjoyed playing the saxophone in the pep band during his college years.

Bill began his career with IBM, where fate intervened, and he met the love of his life, Marge Waligora. The two married just six months later and together raised two sons, Patrick and John. Bill’s career at IBM was exceptional—culminating in his role as Vice President of Procurement in Raleigh, North Carolina—where he played a key role in the development of IBM’s original PC, as well as pioneering technologies like the credit card prototype and bar code scanning systems. After nearly 30 years with IBM, Bill continued to share his expertise with Fisher Scientific in Pittsburgh, PA, and later with SCI in Huntsville, AL, where he ultimately retired.

Bill’s life was far more than his professional accomplishments. He was a devoted Catholic, giving generously of his time and talents by leading parish religious education programs, serving as a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus, ministering to death row inmates for several years, and participating on several boards of charitable health care institutions After 38 years of marriage, Bill’s beloved Marge passed away in 1995. In 1996, Bill married Rebecca “BB” Turnipseed Bergquist, and together they embraced a new chapter filled with travel, music, art, and joyful times with grandchildren and nephews. Last year, they celebrated 28 beautiful years of marriage. An adventurer at heart, Bill was a licensed pilot with a Certified Flight Instructor Instrument rating, flying his family across the country and to one of his favorite destinations—Treasure Cay in the Bahamas. He also had a love for boating and life on the water, always eager to chart a new course.

Bill’s greatest pride and joy, however, was his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Becky; his sons Patrick (Lisa) Quinn of Argyle, Texas, and John (Rebecca) Quinn of Huntsville, Alabama; grandchildren JP (Lisa) Quinn and Kelly (Colby); and five great- grandchildren—Barrett, William, Austin, Evie, and Callen—each of whom brought him tremendous joy. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Roseann (Jim) Goosman, and his brother Rev. James A. Quinn. Bill will be remembered for his incredible “can-do” spirit, his contagious smile, and his unwavering belief that anything was possible. He often drew inspiration from his favorite author, Richard Bach, who wrote: “Argue for your limitations, and sure enough, they’re yours.” “You are never given a wish without also being given the power to make it come true.” “Here is the test to find whether your mission on earth is finished. If you’re alive, it isn’t.” Bill, your mission is complete, and you have run the race well. Your legacy of faith, perseverance, and love will continue to inspire those who knew and loved you. The family has requested private services only.

In lieu of flowers, donations be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Bill’s
memory, continuing his lifelong commitment to faith and service.

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