William Joseph Auriemma, 86, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on November 26, 2025. Born in Scranton, he was the son of the late William Auriemma and Mary Mulderig Auriemma. His long-term partner was Ruth Lefchak who he shared 30 years of his life with.
William graduated from the former St. Ann’s High School in 1957, and went on to dedicate his career to public service as a detective with the Scranton Police Department, where he was respected for his integrity, diligence, and commitment to justice. He was proud to have been the caretaker for the first Police K9 in Scranton named Max.
Beyond his professional life, William was an active member of the Victor Alfieri Club and the Fraternal Order of Police, and he served his community as a Planning Commissioner for Ransom Township. He was an avid bocce player at the Victor Alferi club, winning many championships and helped to establish the women’s league in Old Forge. A man of wide interests, William was a devoted traveler, finding joy in visiting The Islands, especially St. Martin, and in the magic of Disneyland. He was a passionate hunter and, above all, taking care of his family was the most important thing in his life. If you needed it, Bill would make sure you had it. In 1992, he built his home on Red Oak Lake-living in the country was his dream. He was well known for hosting his beloved “Parties at the Pond, Under the Pavilion,” gatherings that reflected his generosity, hospitality, and love of bringing people together.
William is survived by his longtime partner, Ruth; two daughters, Ellen Bolock and her husband Paul of Mechanicsburg, and Kathy Rowinski and her husband Bob of Ransom Township; and a son, William Auriemma. He is also survived by one sister, Anne Marie Dougherty; three brothers, Louis Auriemma and his wife Mary of Scranton, Michael Auriemma and his wife Denise of Dillsburg, and Jerry Auriemma of Scranton; and four grandchildren, Alivia Tuohey and her husband Mike, Stephen Bolock and his wife Alex, Christopher Bolock and his wife Kristen, and Robert Rowinski. In addition, he leaves behind several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins—all of whom he enjoyed lovingly teasing.
The family would like to thank the staff and nurses of the 8th floor at Geisinger – Community Medical Center for the loving and gentle care provided to Bill in his last few days at the hospital.
The funeral will be Tuesday with Mass of Christian Burial at 10AM in Saint Ann’s Basilica in West Scranton. All those attending are asked to go directly to the church. Interment to follow in the Cathedral Cemetery.
Friends may call Monday from 4PM-6PM at Savino Traditional Funerals and Cremation Care, 157 South Main Avenue in West Scranton.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Memorial Giving 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105-9959.
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