William B. Weinschenk 1955 ~ 2015 PORTLAND - William ""Bill"" Weinschenk, 60 of Portland, died on July 29, 2015 at his home after a brief illness. He was born on July 14 (Bastille Day) 1955, the son of Harvey and June (Abbott) Weinschenk and raised in West Islip, NY where he spent his youth playing lacrosse and football, and sailing and clamming on Long Island's Great South Bay. He developed a love for jazz music that ultimately brought him to his beloved New Orleans countless times for Jazz Fest, Halloween or the French Quarter Festival. Bill loved a parade (if they threw beads) and fireworks. He treasured his annual pilgrimage to visit his brother Ric in St. John, U.S.V.I. and participate in his legendary Mexican Train Tournament. Bill will be sorely missed by his colleagues at Opportunity Alliance and especially ""his people"" at Broadway Crossing for his enormous compassion; his willingness to mentor other social workers; and his tireless advocacy for the proper treatment of those coping with mental illness. He was a political activist, feminist, and dogged supporter of basic human rights for all, as evidenced by his letters to the editor in the Portland Press Herald. Bill was a generous friend with an intelligent wit and courageous soul. He was a loving partner, a favorite uncle, a best friend and a loyal brother. He lived his life on his own terms and has left a huge void for those lucky enough to have known him. He leaves behind his best friend and partner of 20 years, Colleen Tucker and their loving Tucker family, his three brothers: Ric of St. John; Thomas and his wife Joanie of West Babylon, NY and their children Ritchie and Jolene and three grandchildren; and Rob and his wife Linda of Manorville, NY. Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Bill's life Sunday, August 2nd, Cliffside Site at the Arboretum in Fort Williams Park, Cape Elizabeth, ME from 11-1:00. You are welcome to bring a story, a poem and a beach chair. To honor Bill's life work, we invite anyone to make a contribution in his name to Preble Street Resource Center, 5 Portland Street, Portland, ME 04101. Condolences can also be posted at www.athutchins.com.