William J. Collett

Waltham- Mr. William J. Collett of Waltham died Monday April 19, 2010 at Sudbury Pines Extended care in Sudbury. He was 83.

Bill was born in Waltham on September 26, 1926, a son of the late William M. and Eva E. (Connelly) Collett and had been a lifelong resident of Waltham. Bill had worked for the City of Waltham for over thirty-five years as a truck driver for the street department until his retirement. He attended Saint Mary’s High School, a graduate of Bishop Lee School of the Theatre in Boston, and in his spare time he enjoyed photography, drawing, and was a wonderful artist. Bill was also a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars in Waltham, Post # 2152 and also served his country during World War II with the United States Navy and during the Korean War with the United States Air Force. Bill was also very proud of his ship that he was aboard, the S.S. Smith Thompson during World War II.

He leaves one brother, Norman S. Collett of Waltham, one sister, Irene Christophel of Saint Louis, Missouri; his brother-in -law, Bob Little of Waltham and many nieces and nephews.

Bill was also the brother of the late Paul Collett, May Pieronni, Floyd Collett, and Ruth Little.

Family and friends will honor and remember Bill’s life by gathering for calling hours at The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte.20), Waltham on Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. and again at 9 a.m. on Friday before leaving in procession to Saint Mary’s Church, 133 School Street, Waltham where his Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Waltham.

Memorial donations may be made to Perkins School for the Blind, 175 Norh Beacon Street, Watertown, MA 02472.