The fenestration community was saddened to learn of the passing of William Churchman du Pont, 64, on Dec. 29, 2020. Willie, as he was known to friends, family, and colleagues, was an early innovator in the fenestration industry and served as the first technical director for NFRC in the early 1990s. 

Willie is credited with training the first class of NFRC certified simulators. Additionally, he helped develop NFRC’s process to test and rate the thermal performance of windows, doors, and skylights, which is still used today.

According to Jeff Baker, former NFRC Board chairman and NFRC Board ombudsman, Willie was instrumental in setting the direction for NFRC when the organization was founded more than 30 years ago. He helped to shape and improve numerous standards and methods.

“He was also a kindhearted person who would help anybody out, whether professionally or personally,” Baker said. “He had so many connections within the business of fenestration and Willie helped navigate NFRC in those early years.”

News of Willie’s passing elicited strong sentiments from those who knew him and of his involvement within NFRC. He was described as a kind and gentle soul who always sought to give 100 percent to his projects and efforts. 

“I always admired Willie’s passion for window energy performance,” said Paul Bush of Vitro Glass and former NFRC board chair. 

Several NFRC members had relationships with Willie beyond fenestration and often joined him sailing on his family’s custom-built 45-foot sloop “Waupi,” which he sailed out of Annapolis, MD.

When Willie left NFRC, he become a consultant and conducted research for the organization while continuing to work closely in areas related to fenestration and energy efficiency. 

Willie was a graduate of St. George’s School in Newport RI, Marlboro College in Marlboro, VT, and Arizona State University in Tempe, where he received a master’s degree in Environmental Science. He died of natural causes, according to the published obituary. There will be a memorial service at the family cemetery in Montchanin, DE, at a time yet to be announced.

Willie du Pont of Sunergy Consulting discussed the Window 6/Therm 6 Validation research project at the NFRC Fall Membership Meeting in Jacksonville, FL., in November 2008.