Published November 16, 2018

MELROSE — William S. “Bill” Kennedy, Sr., 85, lifelong Melrose resident, died peacefully on Monday, November 5, 2018 at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center in Brighton.

Bill was born in Medford on July 13, 1933, one of two children of the late Stanford and Grace M. (Bratten) Kennedy. He was raised in Melrose, and graduated from Melrose High School, Class of 1951. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy, serving as a radioman during the Korean War. Forever patriotic, Bill proudly wore his U.S. flag and bald eagle hat nearly every day. Bill’s working career was dedicated to Polaroid Company where he worked as a machinist for many years. On April 27, 1974, Bill was married to Alice Gaylord, and settled in Melrose to raise a family of three children.

Bill was a longtime member of the Saugus Elks Club and the VFW Post #2394 in Melrose. For many years, Bill served as a bartender at the Saugus Elks and more recently at the Melrose VFW. A genuine good guy, Bill enjoyed his time bartending and socializing with the fellow members.

In his free time, Bill played softball in his younger years, playing cribbage, reading the Boston Herald, and doing Sudoku. He enjoyed puttering around the house doing yard work, and took great care of his beloved tomato plants. A great Boston sports fan, Bill fully expected the Red Sox to win the 2018 World Series.

Family was most important to Bill. He cherished family camping trips to Lake Winnipesaukee, where the family enjoyed time on the lake boating and waterskiing.

A good man with a big heart, Bill was always there to lend a helping hand and offer a ride to family and friends. Bill’s memory will live on in the hearts of his family.

Bill was the beloved husband of Alice (Gaylord) Kennedy with whom he shared 44 years of marriage. Devoted father of Beth Donovan and her husband Patrick of Saugus, William S. Kennedy, Jr. of Melrose, and John E. Kennedy of Melrose. Dear brother of the late Robert L. Kennedy and his late wife, Nancy. Cherished grandfather of Megan L. Donovan. Also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends gathered in honor and remembrance of Bill’s life during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose, on Monday, Nov. 12 and again on Tuesday for his funeral service. Interment with U.S. Navy honors at the MA National Cemetery, Bourne. For directions, online tribute or to share a memory, visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.