William F Willette

William F. Willette, 87, loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather passed away peacefully at Baystate Medical Center on March 1, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Springfield, Massachusetts, on March 21, 1935, to the late Alfred J. Willette and Katherine J. Willette. Bill worked for the City of Springfield for 35 years in the Veterans Service Department, retiring as Deputy Director in 1996. He served in the United States Marine Corps Reserve in Springfield from 1952-1954. He served in the United States Army from 1954 to 1956 and was selected to serve in the elite 3rd Infantry Regiment “The Old Guard,” Company “A” (Honor Guard). He served on the firing party, rendering military honors, at Arlington National Cemetery and many other ceremonial duties throughout the Military District of Washington. His military service inspired following generations of the Willette family to serve their nation in the Armed Forces, including his son Brian, granddaughter Christine, and grandson Kevin. Bill was a member of the Marine Corps League Westfield River Detachment 141, a Life Member of The Old Guard Association, and a Life Member of the South Hadley American Legion Post 260. Bill was a gifted artist & craftsman who enjoyed the many projects he did for his family. Bill loved a trip to the casino and was a loyal Red Sox and New England Patriots fan. Most of all, he loved his family, and being surrounded by them brought him great joy. He was predeceased by a brother, James M Willette and a sister Katherine J. McDonnell. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Betty of 58 years. His son Brian Willette & his wife Gina of South Hadley. His daughter Christine Taylor & her husband Douglas of Springfield. Seven grandchildren: Christine (Peter), Matthew (Erica), Brianna, Kevin, Jennifer, Josh, and Zack. Four great-grandchildren: Vincent, Dominic, Milo, and Rory. He also leaves his loving brother in law, Michael Mould and his wife Patricia of Factoryville, PA. A Funeral Home Service will be held Friday March 10, 2023 at noon from the Toomey-O’Brien Funeral Home 1043 Westfield St. West Springfield with burial to follow in the Mass. Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery in Agawam. A calling hour will be from 11-12 at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: American Legion Post 260 (memo: Honor Guard), PO Box 87, South Hadley, MA 01075.
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