BRISTOL --- William “Billy” Kevin Waltman, 69, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Bristol, NH, on Monday, August 10, 2026. Born on February 21, 1957, in Hartford, Connecticut, and raised in Newington, Billy grew up with a big heart, a quick smile, and a gift for making people feel seen. He graduated from Newington High School in 1975 and Central Connecticut State University in 1981.
Billy’s greatest gift was joy — giving it, sharing it, and creating it wherever he went. He showed up for people in a way that was rare and unwavering. He remembered the details others forgot, kept connections alive across years and miles, and made every conversation feel like the most important one of the day. Like his father, he liked to “work the phone”. In recent years, he set up his “office” by the lake, settling into a chair with his phone and spending hours checking in on the people he loved.
The outdoors was Billy’s happiest place. He loved swimming, skiing, kayaking, dancing, sunshine, and long walks with his beloved dog, Sabrina. He cherished time with family in Misquamicut, RI, and never missed a chance to be near water or under an open sky. More than anything, Billy loved life — and he loved people. He never met a stranger.
For more than 25 years, Billy owned and operated his tree business, Timber Jack, in Rocky Hill, Connecticut. He was strong, skilled, and fearless — a master in his bucket truck and a chainsaw that, in his hands, seemed no more difficult than a butter knife. After moving to New Hampshire, he continued his work through his stump grinding business, proud of the craft he had built and quick to become friends with his customers.
Billy adored dogs, especially Sabrina, his loyal companion of 16 years. She was by his side through countless adventures and quiet moments alike. Many friends have said they’d like to come back as Billy’s dog.
Billy was predeceased by his father, Edward L. Waltman; his mother, Geer B. Geiger; his cousins Peggy, Sparky, Phyllis, Ruth, and Joseph; and his sister in law, Jane.
He is survived by his brother Garry Waltman of Thornton, NH; brother Buzz Waltman and his partner Maureen Klett of Greenwood, SC; sister Cindy Waltman and her husband Jim Stapp of Holderness, NH; and niece YaXi Stapp and her fiancé, Andrew Kormos, of Ashland, NH.
Billy’s family extends heartfelt thanks to his AA community, the Bristol Freedom Coop Community, and Mid-State Health Center for their kindness, friendship, and care. Billy loved everyone — and everyone loved him.
Those who wish to remember and honor Billy's memory may send a contribution to the Edward L. Waltman Memorial Scholarship Fund at the University of Connecticut, the New England Lab Rescue, or a charity of your choice.
A Community Candlelight Vigil was held in his memory on the green in Bristol, NH on Saturday, August 22, 2026.
A Celebration of Life and Internment will be in New Hampshire. Details have not been finalized.
Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services/603Cremations.com, 164 Pleasant St., Laconia, NH, 03246, is assisting the family with arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial, please visit wilkinsonbeane.com.