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William Edward Flaherty
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of William Flaherty on May 8, 2023. Born on March 2, 1933, Bill lived a full and vibrant life, touching the hearts of many during his 90 years with us.
Bill is survived by his devoted son, Brian Flaherty, daughter-in-law Christina Flaherty, and grandson Timothy Flaherty and cherished daughter, Annemarie Flaherty Shea and son-in law Maximilian Shea. He was preceded in death by his loving son, Christopher Flaherty, his parents Thomas Flaherty and Margaret Flaherty (nee Walsh) and his siblings Margaret, Thomas, Maureen and Kathryn.
His business career was one of high achievement and great innovation. Bill was instrumental in introducing aluminum to US automobile production with Reynolds Aluminum in the 1970’s. In 1981, he founded Horsehead Industries, the largest zinc producer in the United States. Horsehead later acquired Great Lakes Carbon, the largest carbon producer in the US, and with that, Horsehead became a longtime member of the Forbes 500 Largest Private Companies. Finally, Bill helped pioneer a new process for recycling zinc dust with the formation of Horsehead Resource Development Company, which, after its public floatation, became a Fortune 500 mainstay in the early 1990’s.
An avid golfer, Bill travelled the world pursuing his passion for the sport and camaraderie with friends. He found great joy spending time at the many clubs he belonged to close to his homes in Palm Beach, Florida and Remsenburg, Long Island, including The Everglades Club, Pine Tree Golf Club, Shinnecock Hills Golf Club, Pine Valley Golf Club, Deepdale Golf Club and the Westhampton Country Club. He also enjoyed spending time at his home in Pebble Beach, California. He was a partner in the Pebble Beach Company, a member of Tehama Golf Club and participated in the annual AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am Tournament for close to 20 years. He is a longstanding member of the Metropolitan Club of NY and also a 50-year member of the New York Athletic Club.
Bill was an advocate for numerous charitable causes over the years, including the Archdiocese of New York, NYU Langone Medical Center, Hope for Depression, Partnership Schools of NYC, Peggy Adams Rescue Center and the Trustbridge Foundation. He led a life of giving back and instilled that importance with his family.
Described best as a mentor, William’s wisdom and guidance left a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to know him. His teachings of persistence and determination stand as a testament to his character and the legacy he leaves behind.
He was a loving father and grandfather, demonstrating humor, kindness and compassion that will always be cherished. His sense of nature was unparalleled and his passion for animals and horticulture was an ongoing focus of his life.
As we gather to celebrate the life of this remarkable man, let us remember the love and laughter he brought to all and the profound impact he had on the lives of those around him.
A Memorial Service in honor of William Flaherty’s life will be held at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, New York on Thursday June 29, 2023 at 10:00 AM.
In lieu of flowers and to support causes dear to William’s heart, the family kindly requests donations be made to either the NYU Langone Health Office of Development (https://nyulangone.org/give/fundraise/williamflaherty), The Partnership Schools (https://partnershipnyc.networkforgood.com/projects/193980-the-wil-liam-flaherty-scholarship-fund) or The Trustbridge Foundation (https://trustbridge.com/foundation/).
Staff Writer on Jun 2, 2023