William J. Kelley

William J. Kelley, 77, of Middleton, MA and long-time resident of Stoneham, passed away peacefully at home on May 26, 2020.

Bill was the son of the late Lester and Margaret Kelley, of Stoneham. He is survived by Anita, his loving wife of 53 years, his son, William J. Kelley II of Tuftonboro, NH, and his three daughters, Lori Arienti and her husband, Tim, of Buxton, ME, Linette Walsh and her husband, Kevin, of Reading, MA and Kristen Kelley-Hartz and her husband, Paul, of Wakefield, MA. Bill was the loving "Grampie" of Tyler, Michaela, Brenden and Casey (deceased).

Bill grew up in Stoneham and attended Stoneham High School prior to enlisting into the US Army. Serving as a vehicle engineer throughout Europe, Bill was commended for his honorable service with a Good Conduct Medal and ranked as a Specialist (E4) at his termination of enlistment. Following his military service, Bill proudly served as a Stoneham firefighter for 33 years. Throughout his career, he was the first Local 2116 IAFF Union President for the Stoneham Department. As Bill was a well-known hard worker, upon retiring from the department he ran his own excavation business and worked in the construction industry for many years.

Spending time with family and friends was a favored pastime and priority. Bill and Anita spent their summers entertaining family at their home in Wolfeboro, NH. Cooking lobsters, boating on Lake Winnipesaukee, and hosting campfires were his favorite activities. He never missed an opportunity to attend one of his grandchildren's events. Bill supported all New England Sports teams, but was most passionate for the Patriots. Bill also enjoyed golf, trivia, history, politics, and his Dunkin Donuts coffee. Everybody was the target of his humor and quick wit.

A Funeral Mass in Celebration of Bill's life will be held on Tuesday, June 16th at 10am in Saint Patrick Church, 71 Central Street, Stoneham. The service will be held in accordance with state safety guidelines regarding social distancing and face-covering.

Donations can be made in Bill's honor to the Casey-Girl Foundation, Inc. at 20 Susan Drive Reading, MA, 01867. Please visit www.caseygirlfoundation.com for additional information.