William Issac “Willy” Armlin IV, 79, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2025, at his home in Schoharie, New York, surrounded by his “girls.”
Born on January 21, 1946, in Cobleskill, New York, Willy was a lifelong resident of the Schoharie Valley. He grew up on the family farm in Franklinton and graduated from Middleburgh Central School. With determination and just two used cars and $150 to his name, he opened a one-bay repair shop in the garage attached to his home. In 1969, he moved the business to a larger location and co-founded A&S Garage in Schoharie.
Over the next six decades, A&S Garage thrived under Willy’s leadership. Very well known throughout the region, it was hard to meet someone that did not know “Willy from A&S Garage,” he earned a reputation for honesty, tireless work ethic, and generosity. His professional legacy was shaped not only by his mechanical expertise and gift of gab but also by building enduring relationships. Most notably a partnership of more than 30 years with his brother-in-law Ronnie Smith. Their collaboration reflected deep mutual trust and respect that left a lasting mark on both the business and the community.
Family was at the heart of Willy’s life. With Cheryle (Smith) Armlin, he raised four daughters: Kelly (Brian) Daugherty, Cindy (Kim) Armlin, Allison Armlin, and Darla (Bob) Robinette. Later in life, upon marrying Beatrice McHale Armlin, he welcomed her daughter Alina (Klaus) Harbers into his heart as his own. Alongside Sylvia Bordeau, he helped raise their granddaughter Nicole Ondrek (“Niki”), whom he considered to be more like a daughter. It was these girls that made up the group of six daughters Willy cherished and called to his side when he knew his time was near.
When once asked if he were disappointed with not having a son, Willy replied: “At some point I was but now I try to imagine which one of my girls would I give back to make that happen, so of course not!” That heartfelt sentiment captured the essence of who he was: a man whose love for family knew no bounds.
Willy cherished time spent with his grandchildren: Hailey and Kaitlin Daugherty; Gabrielle Armlin Parise; River Robinette; Alex Porfirio; and Allyssa (Jim Smith) Hoerz. His joy deepened with the arrival of great-grandchildren: Lily Corbett, Johnny Ondrek, Sadie Hoerz, Ian Smith, and Jacklyn Smith. Whether teaching them how to drive, fish, riding them around on his newest toy, or enjoying build your own ice cream sundae time at Stewart’s, Willy remained their steadfast protector and joyful companion.
He is also survived by sisters: Patricia Stewart and Karen Mueller; brothers: Chet and Keith Armlin; step-siblings: Dawn, Noreen, Mike and Peter MacMillan, along with many nieces and nephews who adored him and countless friends who became a part of his extended family. His loyal chocolate lab Katie remains behind as a faithful companion who rarely left his side.
Willy was predeceased in 2019 by his beloved wife and partner of over 20 years: Beatrice McHale Armlin; parents: William I. Armlin III and Helen (Mueller) Armlin; and sisters: Phyllis Crewell, Skeetz Polak, Gail Smith, Laura Armlin, Clara Zahara, Kathy Waldron and brother: Norbie MacMillan.
Outside of work and family life, Willy found joy in many passions. He loved fishing and hunting, especially when shared with those close to him. He maintained a lifelong enthusiasm for cars with a particular fondness for Fords. He raised beef cows on the side and never missed an opportunity to watch NASCAR races or cheer for the New York Mets or Green Bay Packers. His appreciation for heavyweight boxing reflected the grit that defined him throughout life.
Willy believed deeply in empowering others to pursue their dreams. Many young people got their first taste of responsibility under his guidance at A&S Garage, not just learning about being a mechanic but about integrity and ownership. He took great pride in watching them grow and achieve their own success. Willy maintained lifelong friendships with several of his best guys from the early days. Always smiling and ready to lend a hand or offer encouragement without hesitation or expectation of return, Willy embodied dependability in its truest form.
A visitation with Willy’s family will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Friday, October 3, 2025, at Coltrain Funeral Home, 134 River Street, Middleburgh. A Memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, October 4, 2025 at the Funeral Home. Inurnment will follow in Armlin Hill Cemetery.
Please visit www.coltrainfuneralhome.com to share online condolences with Willy’s family.
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