Obituary of William P. Pinney

William P. Pinney Sidney, NY William Paul Pinney passed away on December 25, 2015 at Wilson Regional Medical Center in Johnson City. He was born September 18, 1948, son of the late Robert Merwin Pinney and Mary Ellen (Hohener) Pinney. Bill served his country honorably in the United States Army. The Bronze Star Medal was awarded to Specialist Four William Pinney, for "meritorious service in the Republic of Vietnam during the period from October 1968 to October 1969." His rapid assessment and solution of numerous problems inherent in a combat environment greatly enhanced the allied effectiveness against a determined and aggressive enemy. Despite many adversities, he invariably performed his duties in a resolute and efficient manner. He energetically applied himself to each task which contributed immeasurably to the United states mission in the Republic of Vietnam. His loyalty, diligence and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest tradition of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. He was also awarded the Army Commendation Medal with "V" Device, "For heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force: Specialist Four Pinney distinguished himself by heroic actions on 19 March 1969, while serving as a demolitions expert attached to Company D, 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry in the Republic of Vietnam. When Company D was air assaulted into a suspected enemy stronghold, Specialist Pinney noticed a suspicious looking object in the landing zone as he exited from his helicopter. Warning the other personnel to remain clear, Specialist Pinney proceeded to examine the area and found two anti-tank mines partially concealed in the grass. After searching the area for booby traps, Specialist Pinney destroyed the mines in place. His valorous actions were responsible for preventing possible friendly casualties. Specialist Pinney's personal bravery, aggressiveness, and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, the 25th Infantry Division, and the United States Army". On June 13, 1970, he was married to Donna Stephens of Walton, NY. They shared 45 years of marriage. Bill retired from Unalam (Unadilla Silo Products) in 2011 after 40 years of dedicated service. Over the years, he was a member of American Legion, VFW, NRA, Masonville Rod and Gun Club, Sidney Center Rod and Gun Club and Elks Club. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting and fishing and shared many adventures and a lot of great stories, some that were even true, with family and friends about his fishing and hunting exploits. His other interests included bowling, mowing his lawn with his John Deere, gardening, and spending time and having great conversations with family and friends. Whether fishing at the pond or sitting in his garage, Bill was a friend to everyone; quick with a joke and always the life of the party. The stories his friends share of his spirit, friendship and many antics are a fitting memorial to a man so full of life. He was a wonderful husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, brother/brother-in-law, uncle, cousin and friend. His biggest appreciation was his family whom he gave all he had to. He leaves behind a father's love and a legacy of life lessons to pass on. Bill will be missed by: his wife, Donna (Stephens) Pinney; his daughters, Alisa Pinney Hathaway (Rob) and Lorinda Renee (Pinney) Edwards (Tom); his grandchildren, Katelyn Marie Edwards, Jayson William Edwards, Noah Christopher Hathaway, Ava Josephine Hathaway, and Ayden Thomas Edwards; sister, Carol (Jim) Golden; sister, Marjorie (Doug) Tuckey, stepbrother Robert Pinney, Jr. and sister-in-law, Marlene Pinney. He is also survived by a few sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, aunts and uncles, as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews. Bill also had many friends over the years that held a special place in his heart. In addition to his parents, Bill was predeceased by his brothers, Richard and Douglas Pinney. Friends are invited to call from 5:00-7:00pm on Tuesday, December 29, 2015 and from 11:00am-1:00pm on Wednesday, December 30th with funeral services beginning at 1:00pm at C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, 21 Main St. Sidney, NY 13838. Burial will take place in Ouleout Valley Cemetery, Franklin. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to either the Masonville Rod and Gun Club Fishing Derby or The Sidney Emergency Squad. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family online at www.landersfh.com. Arrangements are under the direction of C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, Sidney.