William F. Stack, DVM, beloved veterinarian who served the greater Syracuse area for over 70 years, died peacefully at his home in Cazenovia, NY on Sept. 14, 2021, three days short of his 95th birthday. He was surrounded by four daughters.
A Syracuse native and graduate of Christian Brothers’ Academy, Bill enlisted and was a Second Lieutenant serving in the Army of Occupation in Germany. After the war, he attended Manhattan College before entering Cornell Veterinary College, where he graduated in 1953.
Dr. Stack’s passion for veterinary medicine came from his father, Dr. John Stack, also a Cornell graduate. He joined the family practice at the Stack Veterinary Hospital on Velasko Road in Syracuse and then established the Stack Animal Hospital (now Stack Hospital for Pets) in Fayetteville and, eventually, three additional practices. His children remember the many nights their father rushed out to respond to emergencies. He recruited them to warm many Caesarean-born puppies and they assisted with awe and pride.
In addition to his veterinary practice, he served in several leadership and consulting roles across Central and Eastern New York, many devoted to the ethical treatment of animals in research. For a time, he cared for the animals at the Burnett Park Zoo and served as the acting director. He honed his dental skills while cleaning the teeth of lions.
In 2004, he celebrated 50 years in veterinary practice with several colleagues from Cornell, Syracuse and Albany, but he never formally retired. He was devoted to the Humane Association of Central New York where he worked into his 90s. Throughout his career, he mentored many young veterinarians.
Curious and with unlimited energy, Dr. Stack had many other interests. He loved politics, and in 1970, was a Democratic candidate for New York State Senate. He was an avid horseman and Master of the Fox Hounds for the Limestone Creek Hunt. He hunted in Ireland and England, and shared thrilling stories of harrowing fences. He rode until age 80, and was excited to attend his final Blessing of the Hounds in September 2020. He ventured to Mali, West Africa in the 1970’s with his wife, Elizabeth, to visit their daughter, and explored Southeast Asia while in his 80s. A voracious reader, he savored non-fiction and deeply valued the companionship of his book club friends. One of his greatest gifts to his children was a commitment to public service. He loved a good debate, action movies, a comfortable rocker and the New York Times.
Dr. Stack was born in Syracuse on Sept. 17, 1926, the third and youngest son of John H. Stack, DVM and Kathryn (Farley) Stack. He was predeceased by Elizabeth Walker Stack, his wife of 63 years; son, William F. Stack, Jr.; and infant daughter, Mary Elizabeth Stack.
He is survived by his daughters, Kathleen Stack (Michael Koltnow) of Davis, CA, Sarah (Sally) Stack (Barton) Feinberg of Cazenovia, Dr. Anne Stack of Boston, and Eileen Stack (Matthew Clarke) of Albany. He leaves seven grandchildren (Nathan, Justin, Benjamin, Francis, Colin, Hannah and Elizabeth) and six great-grandchildren. He was also predeceased by his close friend and companion, Barbara C. Wheler of Cazenovia.
Calling hours will be Friday, Oct. 22 from 10 to 11 a.m. at St. James Church, 6 Green St., Cazenovia. A celebration of his life will follow the calling hours at 11 a.m. in the church.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Bill’s memory may be made to the Department of Pediatrics Research, Boston Children’s Hospital, bostonchildrens.org/givenow, or by mail to Boston Children’s Hospital Trust, 401 Park Drive, Suite 602, Boston, MA 02215, including William Stack in the memo line.
For guest book, please visit scheppfamily.com.
