Shrewsbury – Willard H. “Bill” Weinhold, a proud veteran of the Merchant Marines who served during World War II, died on such a meaningful and poignant day when the nation celebrates our veterans, Monday, May 25, 2015. He was 90 years old.
Born Aug. 30, 1924 in Worcester, he was the son of the late Arno P. & Minne E. (Lindquist) Weinhold. He was a graduate of South High School.
A decorated serviceman, Bill served his country with honor on the SS Henry Villard and many other Liberty & Victory Ships in the U.S. Merchant Marines during World War II.
Upon his return, Bill worked for Mass Electric for the next 35 years, and when he retired was given the key to the city of Worcester for all his dedication. Starting as a splicer he worked his way to becoming a supervisor of an underground crew that became known as “Willies Wonders.”
When not working, Bill could be found camping, boating or snowmobiling at his home away from home in New Hampshire. His love of gardening allowed his home in Shrewsbury to become a showcase in the neighborhood and a fun place for family and friends to visit.
He met the love of his life, Lucy A. (Davidson) Weinhold, whom he married Aug. 10, 1949 in Saint Mary’s Church in Worcester. They would spend the next 57 years together before Lucy’s death in 2006. They were Shrewsbury residents since 1960.
He is survived by his sister, Mary Kesseli and her husband John of Gorham, Maine and their children, William, Douglas, and Dede Kesseli, and a sister-in-law, Irene Chanis and her husband Charles of Worcester and their children, Christopher, Steven, Peter, and Greg. He was predeceased by his older brother, Raymond A. Weinhold, who served in the Navy.
Family and friends will honor and remember Bill’s life by gathering for calling hours Thursday, May 28, from 4-7 p.m., at Heald & Chiampa Funeral Directors ~ The Sumner House, 5 Church Road, On the Common, Shrewsbury Center, and again Friday, May 29, at 11 a.m., for his funeral service. Burial with military honors will follow in Mountain View Cemetery, Shrewsbury.
Honor Bill’s memory with a donation to The Seamen’s Church Institute, 50 Broadway St., Floor 26, New York, NY, 10004 (www.seamenschurch.org).
