US Army Reserve Sgt. 1st Class (Ret.) William Stewart Komenda
September 2, 1936 – January 9, 2025
William “Bill” Stewart Komenda, 88, of Sandown, NH, passed away at his residence on Thursday, January 9, 2025, after a brief illness. Born on September 2, 1936, in New York City, NY, he was the son of the late Walter and Mary (Stewart) Komenda.
Bill attended Hampstead High School, where he met and married his high school sweetheart, Barbara Emerson. Together, they raised three children. The Emerson family took him under their wing and treated him like one of their own. Their love and support became a cornerstone of his life, and he often spoke with deep gratitude about the lasting impact they had on him. The bond they shared was one of genuine care, and he always considered them a second family.
Bill honorably served his country for 31 years as a member of the 11th Special Forces Reserve Group based at Fort Devens, MA, attaining the rank of Sgt. 1st Class. He served from 1954 until 1995. Bill’s professional life was marked by his skills as a draftsman and engineer, working for several companies over the years, including Medtronic.
During his early years, Bill had a passion for adventure and the great outdoors. He enjoyed scuba diving and snorkeling, hunting trips, fishing, and freefalling in Pepperell. He also loved horseback riding with his beloved horse, Simon. One of Bill’s most cherished memories was a 1992 trip to Israel with a close group of fellow servicemen for a two-week free-falling course. During the trip, they toured Bethlehem, Masada, and many other historical sites. The highlight was the final jump of the 20-jump tour: a breathtaking sunset jump into the Negev Desert. It was an unforgettable experience that provided years of stories and fond memories.
Bill took pride in his impressive gun collection. He also had a special place in his heart for his many beloved Dobermans, whose companionship brought him immense joy and comfort throughout his life. Bill was a history enthusiast and was particularly passionate about World War II and the Civil War. He loved preparing meals and sharing good food with family and friends. He spent much of his time watching his favorite YouTube videos and surfing the web, simple pleasures that brought him joy. Unbeknownst to him, Bill became a star in his own right when his family began creating content “Grampy’s Kitchen” about him on TikTok, sharing moments that captured his vibrant personality. He looked forward to receiving "the call" from his sister and brother-in-law, Nancy and Walter, to join them for coffee, and he enjoyed daily chats with his sister-in-law, Glenda. Bill also cherished his annual camping trips to Otego, New York, with his son, Brian, where he would spend time with his twin brother's extended family, whom he was extremely fond of, at "the pond" campsite. Above all, Bill cherished his family.
Bill is survived by his daughter, Diane Komenda; two sons, Brian Komenda and his wife Jayne, and Daniel Komenda, Sr. and his wife Sue; five grandchildren, Danielle Komenda, Rachel Komenda, Daniel Komenda, Jr., Amy Gamache, and Jesse Komenda; and two great-grandchildren, Lily and Hunter Gamache. Bill was predeceased by his sister, Elizabeth Geib, and his twin brother, James Stewart Komenda.
He was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who found joy in being surrounded by his loved ones and friends. His sense of humor, strength, and dedication to family and friends will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.
After cremation, the family is planning services for a later date. Instead of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to Saint Jude's Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105. The Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium of Derry is assisting the family.