Bill Continelli, W2XOY of This Week in Amateur Radio, SK

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of one of our longtime contributors.

William L. Continelli, W2XOY, passed away Friday, April 19, 2024 at 4pm Eastern Time according to a Facebook post from his wife Nancy.

Our Executive Producer George Bowen, W2XBS made this statement on our Facebook page:

W2XOY was with This Week in Amateur Radio since its inception. He assumed the role of our resident amateur radio historian and self-produced his weekly presentation called “The Ancient Amateur Archives”. Bill was also a good friend. I first met Bill on 11 meters a long time ago. We shared many good times together. He will be missed by many. 73 my friend de w2xbs.

A man of many hats and talents, Bill would find ways to incorporate his radio hobby into his storytelling.

He was in Lower Manhattan on the morning of September 11, 2001. He used his radio passion to navigate out of NYC on the first train out of New York on that unforgettable day. His story was recounted on TWIAR several times, typically around the anniversary. You can listen to it here.

UPDATE: Bill’s obituary is posted online. A portion posted below:

It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of William “Bill” Continelli, also known by his radio pseudonym W2XOY, on April 19, 2024. Born on December 28, 1953, William was a beloved figure with an irrepressible wit, a generous spirit, and an unending reserve of knowledge.

William was a dedicated family man, eternally remembered by his loving wife Nancy Barbour Continelli, whom he married in 2001. He leaves behind an extensive family, including his children Lorie Bethoux, Jessica Velow, Jenn Barbour and Jeremy Barbour; his sons-in-law Nicholas Bethoux and Keith Velow; his daughters-in-law Kelly Barbour and Stephanie Parent, and his grandsons Alex Barbour, Max Barbour, and Theo Bethoux. He is also survived by his sisters Tracey Continelli and Anne Continelli, and his beloved cousin Michele Martin. He was predeceased by his father Basil, his mother Ann, and his brother Bernard Continelli.

A graduate of Canisius High School in 1971 and Canisius University in 1977, both located in Buffalo, NY, William exhibited his quick wit and sense of humor early on. His career was as impressive as it was extensive, notably including 20+ years of federal service as an IRS Revenue Officer, bankruptcy specialist, and enrolled agent. His intellect and the breadth of his interests identified him as not only an amateur HAM radio operator but also a spirited Railfan.

Ever loved

Thank you, Bill. 73