William J. Mee

William J. Mee MILTON William J. Mee, died peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family, after a battle with cancer, on Friday, October 17. War hero, family man, one of a kind; all of these descriptions fit the man who was born in Boston 87 years ago, the beginning of a life that would touch so many others. When WW II broke out, the call of duty would draw him into service to his country. Mr. Mee enlisted in the Navy, and was soon in the heat of battle in the Pacific. He bravely served on the USS Sangamon, an aircraft carrier. In his final days, Mr. Mee said Nobody had a thrill in life until they landed and flew off a carrier. Although it was a thrill, it was also dangerous. During the Okinawa campaign, the Sangamon was struck by a Japanese Kamikaze. It was a direct hitflames and shrapnel tore through the flight deck where 36 sailors died and 21 others were wounded. Bill Mee somehow survived that day, and many other skirmishes. He earned eight navy battle stars and the Presidential Unit Citation. That would be enough for any man, but his life was only beginning. He returned home, married the love of his life, and enjoyed 55 years of marriage and wonderful times with his family of 9 children, 17 grandchildren, and one great grandchild. Mr. Mee was a 36 year employee of the M.B.T.A., retiring as Chief Schedule Maker; as well as a 50 year employee of the Old Boston Garden. Additionally, Mr. Mee was a member of the C.I.A., So. Boston. An early lover of sports, in his youth, he was an accomplished athlete, in the fields of baseball, football, and track. He was the past President the of Milton National Little League. Mr Mee and friend, Mr. Jim Donovan once coached the Milton Babe Ruth National tournament team to 6th place in the country. He mentored and coached countless young baseball players over the years. Despite all of these incredible accomplishments, Bill recently said his most rewarding contribution was providing for his family. That is who he was. He will be missed so much by so many. The beloved husband of the late Pauline G. (Manning), he is survived by his 9 devoted children; Gerry Horvet of Milton, Patricia Chamberlain of Plymouth, Kathleen Smith of Marshfield, Genna McManus and Ellen Teahan, both of Norwell, William F. of Norwood, Francis of Billerica, Richard of Hanover and Robert Mee of Dedham, 17 loving grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. He was the brother of the late Frank Mee and Peg Kelleher. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Mary of the Hills Church, Milton, Wednesday at 10 a.m. Visiting hours will be held at the Alfred D. Thomas Funeral Home, 326 Granite Ave., Milton, Tuesday 4 to 8 p.m. Interment in Milton Cemetery. In lieu of flowers expressions of sympathy may be made to My Brothers Keeper, P.O. Box 338, Easton 02356. wwwalfreddthomas.com.