William John Muir

William John “Ian / Scotty” Muir, of Cromwell, Connecticut, passed away on July 29, 2023, at the age of 93. William spent his final days surrounded by his family in his own home. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Joanne Garafalo Muir, his three children Alison (Meredith Belden), John (Sheila Adams), and Paul, three grandchildren Jennifer, Alexander (Lauren), and Amanda. He also leaves behind his sister in-law, Betty Muir and nieces Lorraine, Grace, and great niece Sierra Whittingham (Daishawn) as well as his Scottish family brothers; Donald, and Neil, sisters; Janet, and Marwin and sister-in-law, Dora, and many nieces and nephews. William was predeceased by his siblings Alistair, Hugh, and Elizabeth. He was also predeceased by his favorite 4-legged companion, Kelly, his German Shepherd.

William was born in Wick, Scotland in 1930. He was the first born of 8 children and became the head of the Muir family at a young age when his father was killed in Bremen, Germany near the end of World War II. William was very proud to share that he served in his Majesty's Territorial Army, the Northern Corps Seaforth, and the R.E.M.E. of the British Army. William immigrated to the United States in 1953 with the help of his cousin Ali Sinclair and Jack Levine, and he settled in Middletown, CT. He was drafted and served active duty in the United States Army from 1954-1956. 

After his service, he first worked at Master Supply in Middletown on Main Street where he spotted the love of his life, Joanne, wearing blue suede shoes. William took pride in his family, close friends, and his career as an electrician. He founded Muir Electric with his son, John, by his side and they worked together for over 25 years. William was an avid swimmer and did not fret cold water, having swam during his childhood years in Wick where he had been seen by many swimming across the Wick Harbour. He loved to teach his family and all the neighborhood kids how to swim in his pool, which he was very proud of. William cherished all the time he spent with his grandchildren, between pool parties to ball games. Everyone that knew him can attest to his acts of kindness, selflessness, and generosity. He will be remembered as a true gentleman.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 4th at 10:30 am at the Cromwell Funeral Home, 506 Main Street, Cromwell.  A burial will follow in the State Veteran Cemetery where full military honors will be accorded.  Family and friends may call on Thursday evening from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at the funeral home.  In lieu of flowers donations in William’s memory may be made to Alzheimer’s Association Connecticut Chapter, 200 Executive Boulevard, Suite 4B, Southington, CT 06489-1058.  To share memories or send condolences to the family, please visit www.doolittlefuneralservice.com.

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