WARREN — William J. "Bill" Zwick, 87, died at his home in Warren Dec. 20, 2013. Bill was born Nov. 7, 1926, in New Britain, Conn. He grew up in Kensington/Berlin, Conn. He graduated from Berlin High School and he served in the U. S. Navy during World War II.

Prior to the war, he began working in the 1940s for one of the first organic farmers. He worked for Buol Machine Company and retired as the company's vice president. Bill started farming on the side and eventually started the Blue Ridge Farm, the love of his life, in Kensington. Bill employed several local kids over the years, and became a strong influence in their lives. Many of his former employees kept in touch with him to express their gratitude for his guidance.

Bill enjoyed bird hunting with his English and Irish setters. He also enjoyed fishing in Canada, and especially fly-fishing with his daughter, Kathleen, on Grand Lake Stream. Bill was a very generous and open-minded gentleman. He was a member of the Berlin Hunting and Fishing Club. He was predeceased by three brothers, George, Frederick and James; and by his parents.

Bill is survived by his wife, Viola "Sally" Zwick of Warren; his daughter, Kathleen Zwick of Warren; and by numerous nieces and nephews.

A private memorial service to celebrate Bill's life will be held at a later date. Burial with military honors will be held at the Maine Veterans Cemetery in Augusta.

Arrangements are entrusted to Hall Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Thomaston.