NEWBURGH – Noel William George Shakespeare, 89, known to many as “Bill,” passed away peacefully June 30, 2010, at a Bangor hospital. He was born Christmas day, Dec. 25, 1920, in Oakfield, the son of Alfred H. and Nellie F. (Lamar) Shakespeare. He was raised in Patten, and had many fond memories of living under Mount Chase, fishing, hunting and skiing to school in the winter. Bill served in the Civilian Conservation Corps, and then in the U.S. Army 1st Infantry Division Reconnaissance Troop, during World War II, having been injured in North Africa. While stationed at Fort Devens, Mass., he met his wife, Vivian. Bill worked for many years in the electrical wholesale business, and was the manager of R.B. Dunning’s electrical section. Bill was also a well-known electrical contractor in Hampden, having owned Campbell Electric and Dixmont Electric. Bill was always a proud member of the CCC, Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion and an active member of the Masons, having risen through the “Scottish Rite.” During his retirement, Bill worked for many years at Job Corps. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Vivian E. Shakespeare; his son, William W. Shakespeare and his wife, Rachel, of Hampden; two daughters, Dolores Cross and her husband, Robert, of Feeding Hills, Mass., and Linda Shear and her husband, Lee, of Tampa, Fla.; one sister, Helen Wilson of Utah; six grandchildren, five great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, five sisters and one brother. Bill will be greatly missed by his family and many friends. The family extends their gratitude to the staff at Eastern Maine Medical Center for the wonderful care provided to him during his final days. Also a very special thank you to Daryne Rockett of the Bangor Veterans Center for playing the harp for Bill and his family, and making his final hours peaceful. A private family ceremony and interment will be held at Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Augusta. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider contributions to Bangor Veterans Center, 368 Harlow St., Bangor, ME 04401; VFW Post No. 1603, P.O. Box 1286, Auburn, ME 04211-1286; or CCC Legacy, P.O. Box 341, Edinburg, VA 22824. Arrangements entrusted to Hampden-Gilpatrick Funeral Home, 45 Western Ave., Hampden. Messages of condolence and memories may be shared through www.hampdengilpatrick.com.
NOEL W. G. SHAKESPEARE ‘BILL’
