August 20, 1957 – May 18, 2024
FRISCO — William Frederick Heinkel, Jr., known to many as “Bluewater Billy,” was born on August 20, 1957, in Chicago, IL. He passed away on May 18, 2024, in Frisco, NC, at the age of 66.
Bill graduated from Langley High School in McLean, VA, and moved to Hatteras, NC, in the 1970s. A competent builder and repairman, he went on to construct many houses on Hatteras Island and in Jupiter, FL. His dedication and craftsmanship in construction left a lasting impact on those communities.
One of Bluewater Billy’s greatest joys in life was fishing. As a young man, he was the “first mate” on countless offshore fishing trips and tournaments, catching many trophy billfish and other large gamefish found in the Gulf Stream. Later in his life, Billy spent most of his free time by the water, finding solace and contentment in the peacefulness of the beach and sea.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents and Hatteras Village residents, Jean Sloan Heinkel and William F. Heinkel, Sr. He is survived by his brother, Curt Sloan Heinkel of Fernandina Beach, FL, and his sister, Gretchen H. Thompson of Nashville, TN.
In accordance with his wishes, there will be no service at this time. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks, is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.
