William "Bill" Adams

William "Bill" Adams passed away on October 14, 2025, at Morristown Medical Center after a short battle with cancer.
Bill was born in Teaneck, New Jersey and spent his childhood in North Bergen, where he attended North Bergen High School and was proudly elected as senior class president. After graduating from Windham High School in Maine, he returned to New Jersey and received his bachelor's from Montclair State University.
Bill led a very successful career as a Consultant to the Fine Wine industry. He was one of the first promoters of fine German wines to the United States as well as one of the first importers of vintage champagnes to the United States. He traveled the world as part of his work: most frequently to France and Germany and oftentimes with his wife, Barbara. Mentoring was an integral part of his professional career: while in Germany and France, he assisted the next generation of wine producers of family vineyards in presenting their wines to the global market and specifically the United States. He was also an active mentor to the newest generation of wine professionals.
While in high school, Bill met Barbara Minell, the love of his life and wife of 51 years. Together, they started their family first in North Bergen, then New Brunswick, and finally in Westfield.
Bill was a proud member of the Deutscher Club of Clark and a loyal Mets fan. What he will be remembered for most, however, is his strong personality, soft heart, and bad jokes. He was a dedicated husband and father as well as a loyal friend. To be Bill's friend was an honor. His loyalty extended beyond his family and friends to animals as well: his house always had at least one pet- whether it be a dog, cat, or guinea pig.
While his career involved traveling frequently, he also loved to travel with his family. He and Barbara loved their trips to Cape Cod, Europe, and Saint-Martin. Bill especially treasured trips to Brewster, swimming in the bay, spending time with local friends, and eating at local restaurants. No trip was complete without a few dozen oysters, a midnight swim in the bay, and an outdoor shower. Brewster on the Cape held a special place in his and his family's hearts for nearly 50 years.
Bill is predeceased by his parents, William and Louise Adams and his siblings Fred William Adams and Adrienne Adams Doyle. He is survived by the love of his life, Barbara; his sons, Sean (Nessa) and Eric (Alyssa); his grandson, Skyler; his sister, Dianne; as well as many nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors. He will also be missed by his granddaughter, Dawn, who will be born in February.
A visitation will be held on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at Dooley Colonial Home, 556 Westfield Ave., Westfield NJ from 1-4:30pm. Immediately following the visitation, Bill's family invites you to join them in a celebration of his life at 16 Prospect Wine Bar and Bistro in Westfield Please be prepared to bring your favorite memories of Bill and to share your favorite bad jokes.
Bill's family kindly asks that you not send flowers or food but instead make a donation in Bill's memory to Doctors Without Borders or World Central Kitchen.