William "Bill" Schreiner

William "Bill" Bradley Schreiner, 80, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at OHSU Oncology/Vista Pavilion in Portland, Oregon. He was surrounded by the love, comfort, and unwavering presence of his family in his final moments.

Born on October 30, 1945, in Carthage, Missouri, Bill was the cherished son of the late Walter Scott Schreiner and Ruth Adeline Schreiner (née Wolfe). He spent his formative childhood years in North Babylon, New York, where he developed a keen, analytical curiosity about the natural world around him. Characterized by a quiet, observant intelligence, he pursued higher education at Hope College, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology.

A proud veteran, Bill served with honor in the United States Army. During his military tenure, he was stationed in South Korea as part of the United States Army Pacific (USARPAC). He attained the rank of Private First Class (PFC (P) E-3) and earned distinctions for his skill, precision, and steadfast dedication, receiving the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal along with marksman and sharpshooter qualifications. This foundational period of military service deeply shaped his character, instilling a profound sense of duty, integrity, and self-discipline that guided him throughout his life.

Following his honorable discharge from the Army, Bill transitioned into the corporate financial sector, establishing a distinguished career over many years with JP Morgan. Yet, his true calling and most enduring legacy lay in his selfless devotion to community service and helping those in need. In Mendham, New Jersey, he served as a dedicated volunteer fireman. After stepping away from financial corporate life, he poured his time, energy, and compassionate heart into advocating for vulnerable populations, volunteering with two non-profit organizations focused on assisting individuals living with AIDS/HIV, as well as offering support and presence to patients in local hospital settings.

Bill was the epitome of a humble, generous, and gentle soul, whose quiet wisdom and thoughtful guidance enriched the lives of all who knew him. Among his personal pursuits, he maintained a lifelong fascination with stamp collecting. This passion was sparked during a prolonged childhood hospitalization while recovering from polio, transforming a comforting pastime into a meticulously curated lifelong hobby that brought him immense joy and reflection.

Affectionately known as “Pappy,” “Grand Pappy,” “PapPap,” and “Cookie Monster” to his loving children and grandchildren, Bill possessed a wonderfully subtle, wicked sense of humor. He was famous for his characteristic silent chuckle, laughing so genuinely that his entire body would shake with delight. His fondness for sweets was legendary and well known to all—a supply of chocolate chip cookies, dark black licorice, and colorful Jelly Beans was always close at hand, bringing smiles and sweet moments even into his final hours.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 24 years, Nancy Erskine Schreiner. His memory will be held dear in the hearts of his daughters, Jennifer Schreiner, Christine Schreiner, and Bonnie Schreiner; his sons, Damian Erskine and Matthew Schreiner; and his sisters, Karen Suarez, Diane Clemence-Schreiner, and Pam Schreiner. He leaves behind a loving family, numerous grandchildren, and a legacy of kindness, service, and quiet devotion that will continue to inspire generations to come.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests that memorial contributions be made in Bill’s honor to the New Jersey State Firemen's Association (Mendham Firemen's Relief Association) at www.mendhamfd.org.