William V. Oliver

HOLDEN - William V. Oliver, 90, a life-long resident of Holden passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, October 1, 2017 surrounded by his loving family. Bill was the son of the late Elmer P. and Irene (Savage) Oliver and lived his entire life in Holden. Bill proudly served his country during World War II aboard the U.S.S. Yancey in the Asiatic and Pacific Theater including the battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. Upon returning home, Bill met and married the love of his life, Viola Forsberg in 1950 and celebrated 50 years of marriage in 2000 with a family gathering in Ogunquit, Maine before her passing in 2001. Bill worked for over 40 years for the Town of Holden in both the Department of Public Works and Fire Department retiring as Director of Public Works and Deputy Fire Chief. Bill loved riding the back roads of Worcester County observing wildlife. He also enjoyed reading, walking and trips to Hot Dog Annie’s. Most of all Bill loved spending time with his family. He spent many happy family summer vacations on Moody Beach in Maine. He recently celebrated his 90th birthday at home with his children and grandchildren. Bill will be greatly missed by his children, Deborah Lindgren of Holden, Stephen Oliver and his wife, Deborah of Surfside Beach, SC, Betsy Thurber and her partner, Bruce Glover of Franklin, NH, and Amy Savasta and her husband, Mark of Rutland; his sister, Ann Harrington of Holden; his nine grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren with one on the way; cousins, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers John C. Oliver, and James S. Oliver. A graveside service with full military honors will be held at Grove Cemetery on Thursday, October 5th at 12:00 Noon followed by a celebration of life gathering at Val's Restaurant on 75 Reservoir St. in Holden. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to St. Jude's Children Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Second Chance Animal Shelter, 372 North Main Street, North Brookfield, MA 01535. Funeral arrangements are under the care of Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit our "Guest Book" here on this page.