William “Bill” Groel

William “Bill” J. Groel, 77, of Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey, entered into the presence of the Lord on April 12, 2025. Bill’s final days were spent in the loving company of his family.

Bill served with the U.S Navy, owned and operated Amerada Hess gas station, and worked as a fundraising consultant with 3J Fundraising, a family-owned fundraising company. His passion for community extended beyond serving in the military and supporting schools to raise funds. He coached many baseball and basketball teams as his children grew and found joy in umpiring for local baseball teams. Bill’s favorite month was March, where he would passionately watch college basketball during March Madness. He could also be found ringing a cowbell on the Schuylkill River during the spring rowing season. Bill loved being outdoors to feed and watch the birds. He also enjoyed chopping wood, meticulously manicuring his lawn, and spending time in the pool with his family and friends.

For the past 16 years, Bill dedicated his life to being a messenger of Christ. It was his heart’s desire to model the grace and love of his Lord and Savior in hopes that others would come to know Him too. Bill’s faith became the cornerstone of his life, guiding his actions, his service, and his deep compassion for others. Bill volunteered at his church by serving with the thrift shop and establishing the wood ministry whereby he delivered wood to those who needed to heat their home. With an open heart, he committed his life to helping those in need.

Bill is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Carolyn Pike Groel, and children Jaclyn Groel Koczan, William Groel Jr., Jennifer Groel Farrelly, and Jason Groel, along with their spouses. He was a proud and loving grandfather to nine grandchildren, each of whom brought him endless joy.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held May 10, 2025 at Lighthouse Alliance Community Church in Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey. Visitation will take place at 10am with a Celebration of Life service at 11am.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Bill’s legacy of serving others by donating your time, efforts, and gifts of self to your community. A donation in Bill’s name can also be given to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation https://www.cholangiocarcinoma.org/donate/.