William J. Korolyshun, age 69, of Derby, entered peacefully into eternal rest on Monday, April 14, 2025 at Yale-New Haven Hospital with his loving family by his side following a valiant and fearless battle with cancer. Bill was born in Derby on August 26, 1955 and was the son of the late Russell and Joan (Ziomek) Korolyshun. Born during the Great Flood of 1955, Bill entered the world with vigor and force — a theme that he carried throughout the entirety of his life on earth.
In his early twenties, Bill began his lifelong career in construction and was the owner of IMCO: Industrial and Municipal Construction Co. He served as a volunteer firefighter for over fifty years with Paugassett Hook & Ladder Company No. 4 — including as a former captain — and was also a member of the Catholic War Veterans Post 1562 and the AM Club in Derby. From a very young age, Bill demonstrated his steadfast dedication to helping others, leaving behind a legacy of service and profound impact on the lives of those in need. He faced every challenge head-on, always with a smile and a great sense of humor. No problem was too big or too small for Bill.
In 1981, Bill met his wife, Lori, and, together during their 37 years of marriage, built a beautiful life filled with unconditional love and immense happiness. At home, Bill was most comfortable in the kitchen, always singing to his oldies, and expressed his love through food — something that will be greatly missed by many. Bill also had a deep connection with and love for animals. He trained his German Shepherds as trusted companions and loyal protectors, he gave countless stray cats their forever homes, and he even unknowingly domesticated many wild and free-spirited animals including a crow, an owl, and a raccoon throughout his childhood and early adult life.
Above all else, Bill’s greatest joy was his family. He was the beloved and devoted father of his girls, Meagan and Rachel, and he absolutely adored — and spoiled — his grandchildren, Brooke and Blake, the children of Meagan and her husband, Alan Fiano. Bill cherished time spent with his family more than anything.
Bill is survived by his four brothers, Russ, John and wife Arlene, Dickie and wife Janice, and Bobby and wife Kathy, and his sister, Mary McHugh and husband Keith as well as several cousins and many lifelong friends. He also leaves behind seven nieces and nephews and three great-nieces and nephews, all of whom adored their Uncle Billy.
Bill and his family will be forever grateful for the exceptional care given at Smilow Cancer Center at Yale-New Haven Hospital. Most notably, Dr. Jacquelyne Gaddy’s unwavering determination, compassion, and friendship brought Bill comfort and peace throughout this time.
Bill’s unyielding spirit and unwavering faith as well as the infinite thoughts and prayers — and let’s not forget the food — from family, friends, and supporters (you know who you are) carried him through more than two years of treatment. The endless love of those who surrounded Bill serves as a testament to who he was as a person. He was greatly loved and will be deeply missed.
Family, friends, and loved ones may greet Bill and his family at the Edward F. Adzima Funeral Home at 253 Elizabeth Street, Derby, on Tuesday, April 22, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM. On Wednesday, his procession will leave the parlor at 9:30 AM for a Mass of Catholic Burial at 10:00 AM at St. Mary’s Church in Derby. Burial will follow at St. Michael’s Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Shriners Hospitals for Children.
