William (Bill) Joseph McDonnell

     It is with heavy hearts that the family of William (Bill) Joseph McDonnell , 83, of Naples, FL announce his sudden passing on September 2, 2021.

     Bill was born June 10, 1938 to John and Margaret McDonnell of Hyde Park, MA.

     In 1959 he married Kathleen (Petty) Moore and began his entire career as an HVAC mechanic.  They raised their two sons in Easton, MA and eventually lived in Brewster, MA before retiring to Naples, FL in 1991.

     Bill proudly served in the U. S. Navy as a radarman on the aircraft carrier USS Valley Forge from 1956 – 1958.  He was a member of the Moose Lodge 1782 and the American Legion Post 135, both in Naples, FL.  He was also a proud member of the Pipefitters Association Local Union 537 in Boston, MA for 60 years.

     He enjoyed the sociability of his many friends and playing golf with best friend Peter and their buddies as a member of Glen Eagle Golf and Country Club in Naples, FL.

     Bill loved coaching the Easton Junior Hockey team in the 70’s and was also an avid Boston sports fan.  He enjoyed cooking, daily walks, his yearly cruise with his “bride” Kathy and his frequent shopping excursions.

     Bill is survived by his wife Kathy (married 61 years); devoted father to Daniel and John (Shelby) of Easton, MA; loving “Gumpy” to grandchildren Nikki and Ryan (Alicia) of Taunton, MA; his cherished great grandson Riley Emory McDonnell; his sister Peggy Malley of FL; brothers John of FL and Edward of Idaho; and his sisters-in-law Maureen Moore Drummy and Marjorie Scott, both of Quincy, MA.  He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews whom he dearly loved.

     A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.  In lieu of flowers the family is requesting donations be made to the Wounded Warriors Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516 in memory of Bill McDonnell.