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William Auchterlonie
William Auchterlonie
Obituary
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William Auchterlonie Obituary
He was born Dec. 28, 1946, in Andover, Mass., the son of the late John and Mary (Mooney) Auchterlonie. He moved with his family to Bristol at the age of 11. He was a graduate of Bristol Memorial High School, Class of 1964, and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps after graduation, serving honorably for four years.
Bill was married in the winter of 1970 and built his Worfield Circle home over the following years. He was a long time employee of Freudenberg-NOK, working his way up from the spring department to machinist, eventually managing the mold and die department at the end of his career. He remarried in the fall of 1993 to his devoted wife, Dorothea A. Auchterlonie.
Billy was loved by the community of Bristol for his commitment to volunteering. Fireman Bill was a dependable asset to the Bristol Community Center, participating in both sports and community programs For many years, he orchestrated the Santa's Workshop program. His invlovement in the sports community dates to his fundraising for the original Wells Little League Field. Bill coached Little League, girls' softball and the school cross-country and track programs.
He was a role model to many in the community. He was an avid long-distance runner, completing many marathons and multiple runs to the top of Mount Washington. A special accomplishment was the completion of a 10-mile road race in 59 minutes and 38 seconds. Bill also was an accomplished golfer, having competed in many tournaments, and scored a hole in one twice.
Bill lived a happy life, keeping his wonderful sense of humor through his last days. Bill was proud of his service to the country in the Marine Corps. He loved the company of close friends, his home was a gathering spot with people dropping in frequently.
Bill is survived by his wife, Dorothea; his children, Bill Auchterlonie of Portland,Ore., and Jill Auchterlonie of Concord; his brother, John Auchterlonie and wife Joan of Concord; his sisters, Judy Pinkney and husband David of Andover, Mass., and Marsha Brophy and husband Tom of Strafford; his three stepchildren, Lisa Holmes and husband Bernie of Belfast, Maine, Kip Renaud and wife Sharon of Marietta, Ga., and Kyle Renaud and wife Carrie of Salem; as well as several grandchildren and a close extended family. Bill will live on in our memories and hearts.
There will be a celebration of Bill's life on Saturday, Feb. 16, at 2 p.m. in the American Legion Hall, Spring Street, Bristol. Donations may be made in Bill's memory to the Tapply-Thompson Community Center, 30 N. Main St., Bristol NH 03222.
The Dewhirst Funeral Home, 1061 Union Avenue, Laconia, is assisting the family. Please visit our website, dewhirstfuneralhome.com, to send on-line condolences or for further information.
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34 Entries
Tom Brophy
August 5, 2008
Bill you are missed very much by many. Today would of been my son Thomas' 40th birthday. Hope you have run across him and there was a ping pong table near by. I'm confident he would hold his own in a ping pong game with you. However, you would be all over him in a chip and putt contest.
I miss you a lot Bill.
Love, your brother-in-law Tom.
Tom Brophy
April 9, 2008
The following is a note received by Jill in a card from her friend Paul. Jill asked that it be put up in the guest book.
Jill -
I am so sorry about your Dad. I know how much he meant to you and how much you both loved each other. He was a great guy and I have lots of good memories of him from growing up. I'll miss your Dad too, and I want you to realize that so many people are feeling for you during this awful time - and you're never alone.
I hope you can take some comfort in all of the great memories you have of your Dad, and knowing that he is finally free from the unblievable constraints of his unfortunate illness. Your Dad led a good and happy life - you should try to follow his example everyday of the rest of yours. He wanted you to do that.
Love you, Paul
"If you are standing waist deep in a pool and your shirt catches fire you wouldn't ask why you would just jump in."
You'll have some hard days ahead of you - just keep on keeping on even when you don't want to. :-) PW
Entry entered by:
Roger & Maggie Goodnough
April 8, 2008
This was on a card to Dottie, Don't think of him as gone away-his journey's just begun, life holds so many facets-this earth is only one. Just think of him as resting from the sorrows and the tears in a place of warmth and comfort where there are no days and years. Think how he must be wishing that we could know today how nothing but our sadness can really pass away. And think of him as living in the hearts of those he touched....for nothing loved is ever lost--and he was loved so much.
Dear Dot,
I just heard of Billy's passing from my sister. I am so sorry. I hope you take comfort in what a great and significant life he had. He left a legacy to be very proud of. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Paul Weeks
April 8, 2008
Dearest D, Words cannot convey the depth of feeling for your loss. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. Bill was a man I did not know for long but he was easy to appreciate. He had that self-deprecating wit even in his sickness that was not only endearing but showed the measure of his character. Again, my deepest sympathies. I will miss him. If there is anything I can do, just let me know.
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Kip Renaud
March 18, 2008
Like everyone else who knew Bill, I thought the world of him and enjoyed his company. He was always there with a smile, laugh or joke. Watching Bill go through his battle with Shy-Drager disease was heartbreaking (http://www.shy-drager.org). Bill handled this horrible ailment with such an upbeat attitude and spirit that you could not help but admire him. Bill was so wonderful with my children and I know they loved him very much. They saw "Grampa Bill" (said with a southern accent) for who he was and never once asked why he had difficulty walking or talking. When my mother (Dottie) first told me she was engaged to Bill, I was glad for her because I simply wanted her to be happy. Bill did so much more than make mom happy, he was so good to her and good for her. They had a great relationship, doted on each other, picked on each other, and made such a perfect couple. It was obvious to everyone how much they loved each other. I just want to thank Bill for how great he was to my mom and my entire family. We will all miss that wonderful man very much.
Dorothea Auchterlonie
March 16, 2008
Hi Bill, Today is my birthday. I am now older than you which you always waited for from your birthday until now so you could tease me and "the girls" about us being old. I spent it with Jill at Boake and Betty's and Barbara and Earl were there too. Jill gave me some cute gifts and a musical card. As your personal shopper of late she always picked great musical cards.
Billy, Jill and I are still struggling with you leaving us. We miss you so very much. I love you.
Tom Brophy
March 12, 2008
The following are some more of the kind words written to Dorothea in sympathy cards. They are in no particular order. Dorothea wanted to thank everyone for their cards.
Billy was a wonderful man who we will truly miss.
Richard & Brenda
Dottie, was saddened to read the paper of Billy’s death. Just a note to let you know we are thinking of you.
Sally Butterfield Boyd
Dear Dottie, I imagine things have quieted down a bit now for you – maybe too much! I’m so sorry that we could not attend the gathering for Bill – Eddie and his family, along with his wife’s mom and sisters, arrived for the weekend just at that time. I’m sure you understand and I know there must have been a huge crowd so that we were not even missed! I have been wanting to let you know how much you have been in my thoughts – Both you and Bill – and we did want to be there to celebrate his life. This has been such a difficult time for you all and I’ve admired your spirit!
Michelle.
Sorry to hear about Billy. Worked together years and years. He was Smart, Hard worker and full of the devil, great combo and made him someone Special.
From Cora & Chandler Brown.
Dear Dot, I am at a loss for words to express the love + sadness I feel for you + families. Be proud, for you were a devoted wife to “Bill-wee”!!! Will talk to you soon.
Love, Pauline (Paw-yene) + Howie Palmer.
Dear Dottie, our thoughts + prayers are with you + your family! We have such wonderful memories of the vacation when you + Bill joined Nancy + Earl + came to Tucson! Everyone had such a grand time! We hope the memories + love that you two shared will help you through this most difficult time!
Will + Ann Mills.
Dorothea, please accept my deepest sympathy. For the past few years you have done everything you could to make Bill’s life as full as possible. Have no regrets – you did it all for him.
Harriet Lohnes
Dear Dottie, I’ll always remember Bill as “Billy”, his infectious grin and his kindness toward others. I’m very sorry he had such a struggle toward the end of his life but grateful he left his family and friends loving memories of his warm and generous spirit. My thoughts are with you.
Karen (Clough) Lavery.
Dot, my heartfelt sympathy to you. What you and Billy went through no one should have to, but you both did it with such strength + love. How fortunate Billy was to have you by his side. You are a very special person, now take care of yourself.
Carol + Peter Exford
Dear Dorothea, we are so very sorry about Billy and we hope you will call on us if there is anything at all that we can do for you.
Love, Tom + Carolyn.
Dear Dot, granted this is not your traditional sympathy card of hushed gloom, I just preferred to think of the whimsical joy and razor wit Billy dispersed among all of us. I remember him grinning like a happy hyena at your wedding and saying in what I thought of as his John Wayne voice “who thought my bride would be wearing cowboy boots!” That and witticisms from the den bemoaning the noise from your front parlor “hen parties.”
Well…it is my belief that Billy is up and running again, hopefully found another Camden, and hopefully will put in a good word for the rest of us…we’ll need it!
I wish you peace, good memories, and eventually joy again. Will call soon.
Love, Julie Baldi.
We were so sad to hear of Billy’s passing. I cherish many fond memories of Bill from “The old days”. I will always remember his great sense of humor and infectious smile. Our hearts and prayers go out to you Dottie and your family.
Kevin + Pam White
Dorothea, us “Kids” on the track + field team were fortunate to have Bill as a role model. I am sorry to hear of your loss.
With deepest sympathy, Lorna Platts.
Dear Dottie, I am truly sorry about the loss of Billy. He was a great Person with a wonderful attitude. He was certainly blessed to have you for his wife and caregiver during his illness. I hope all your good memories of earlier days will be a comfort to you. Take care of yourself.
Sincerely, Beth Alexander (Judy’s sister-in-law)
I’m sorry about Bill. I wish I could have gone to the service. You take care of yourself and we will have to get together soon. Melody would like to go to lunch with us sometime soon too!
Nancy Haddock
Dear Dot, although I seldom visit Bristol these days I do stay in touch via family. It was thus, in a conversation with my mother, that I learned of Billy’s untimely death. I have only seen him a few times since our school days, and although I knew he wasn’t well, I was not aware just how ill he was. It seems like it was just a short time ago we were racing around Bristol doing the kinds of crazy things young men do. In retrospect, however, I realize a lifetime has passed, and that I know little of his life since those long gone days of youth. I sincerely hope your time together was good and that, as time passes, these memories will help you through the days ahead. Please give my wamest regards to all your family and know that you are in my thoughts.
With warmest sympathy, Rick Worthen.
Dot, my thoughts and prayers are with you. You were a loving and caring person to Bill. He was lucky to have you!
Arlene Newell
I’m sorry I didn’t know until this week – when I heard at the store that Bill had passed away. Keep all the good memories in your heart!
Sue Brundrett
I know this is a bit late but I have had you all in my prayers for some time – and still do. May our Lord give you all the help you need now…and may Bill’s soul be with our Lord.
Sincerely, Eva Scott
Dottie, I think of you often and please call if I can be of any comfort and support. Looking back in time, we have known each other a lonnng time! Hope to see you real soon and have lunch or go shopping.
With love, Phyllis Schofield.
Dear Dottie, thinking of you during this difficult time. I wish I had the words to comfort you – but just wanted you to know we care and your memories with Bill will always be with you. Take care of yourself.
Sincerely, Lucille + Bill.
We were so very sad to hear of Bill’s passing. We hope you will carry all of the happy times you had together in your heart…it will help to ease your sorrow.
With heartfelt sympathy, Ted + Dianne
Dear Dottie, thinking of you and holding you in our prayers. He was a wonderful man and we will miss him very much. Very special memories and times we had with you both. Wish we could have been there.
Love you, Jim, Lynn and family.
Dottie, so sorry to hear about Bill. Leann called me. We were at your mom’s wake. Leann always spoke highly of him. Remember all the good times with him. Regards to his daughter + son.
Thinking of you, Beverly Lizotte (Leann’s sister)
These entries put up by:
Earl and Barbara La Flamme
February 29, 2008
I remember the first day I met Bill at Bristol Insurance. I liked him instantly, and the more I knew him, the more I liked him.
I love how he made us laugh, and how he loved to tease and joke with everyone. He shall be missed by Earl and me.....around our table, but he is in our hearts always, and we will remember the good times that we shared. God bless Dorothea, Young Billy and Jill.
dad and daughter jill
February 28, 2008
dad and daughter jill
February 28, 2008
bill at bow lake
February 28, 2008
bill in the marines
February 28, 2008
young billy
February 28, 2008
Linda Gray
February 28, 2008
Dear Dottie,
Frank and I had heavy hearts when Polly told us of Billy's passing. We pray for strenght, understanding and God's love for you and Billy's family during this time. My memories of Billy go back to high school and how much he cared for you all those years ago. I always thought "what a wonderful fairy tale ending" when I heard that the two of you were married!
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Frank & Linda
Tom Brophy
February 28, 2008
The following are some of the kind words written to Dorothea in sympathy cards. They are in no particular order. Dorothea wanted to thank everyone for their cards.
Billy was one of the nicest people I have ever met. He was my boss at Freudenberg, Tobin Tool. You could have a disagreement and ½ hour later it was like it never happened. The air was cleaned and the disagreement was history. One of my fondest memories was a Thanksgiving Turkey Trot a few years ago. It was cold that morning so instead of the usual group from my family it was just my daughter Kelsey and I. Billy beat me by half a mile and he was wearing his neck brace. It was shortly after his surgery. I will miss him. Bob.
Bob + Nancy Watson
Dottie, our childhood days we left behind are with me in my heart and mind as I remember Bill. Your friend always, Paul.
Dear Dottie. We’re so sorry about what you + Bill had to go through. We know how kind, caring and loving you were with Bill through this horrible ordeal. We know he loved you very much and that he was concerned about you. We hope that time can lessen the pain and that you will be able to find peace.
Love, Judy & Dave Pickney
Dorothea, Dan and I want to tell you how sad we are in your loss of Bill. Our hearts, thoughts and prayers go out to you at this most difficult time. May God shed his grace on you and your family.
Dan & Lori Dreisbach
“To die completely, a person must not only forget, but be forgotten, and he who is not forgotten is not dead” Samuel Butler --- Our prayers and sincere sympathy are with you. Our family shares your loss.
Love + friendship. Harlie & Susie Putnam Sr + family
Dottie, Bill’s bright smile and cheery disposition will be greatly missed. He was a fine man and I cannot think of a higher compliment.
Joe (Joe & Paula)
Can’t stop thinking about you. We love you dearly, Jecca & Dave
PS ie just know he’s up there telling fat jokes about me Jecca Auchterlonie.
Dear Dottie. Was sorry to read about Bill’s death. I wish I could have come to the service but was working and couldn’t get out at such short notice. Please accept my sorrow for your loss.
Love Anna Rerrie
Dorothea, I’m so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. He sincerely touched so many lives and brought happiness to all. May God be with you. Love, Priscilla.
Dorothea, I am so sorry I was unable to attend the celebration of Bill’s life today due to illness…the flu. I am fortunate not only have you as neighbors but also to have worked with Bill. My deepest sympathy goes to you.
Diane Williams.
Growing up, I spent a lot of time visiting my grandparents in Bristol, and I have fond memories of Uncle Bill. Who would always stop by to visit and tell us stories or jokes. He always has such a great sense of humor and made us – and our grandmother laugh. He truly was a special person with such a zest for life. We’ll treasure our memories of Uncle Bill and all the wonderful times we shared.
Love, Lori Rodenhiser & Greg
Our sincere sympathy goes out to you in the loss of your loved one. Bill was a special person who will be missed by all. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Ron + Mary Preble
Dottie, I am so sorry for your loss, yours is the greatest of all. I am happy that my Uncle married you, anyone one could tell that you have a very special love. I can’t tell you how having you in his life this past few years has meant to me. The care and love you have given him thru his illness has been amazing. You are a lovely person and will always be part of the family.
You will be in my prayers, Kathy Lawrence—also Cal, Alex, William and Christian.
Dear Dorothea, I am so sad to hear about Bill. Please know that I am thinking of you. Take care of yourself.
Love Marci Brier
Dear Doro, Barb let us know about Bill’s death. We are so sorry. You’ve suffered right along with him for the past few years – and, although you are unhappy the suffering is over, you’ll miss his companionship and love. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you right now.
Pete & Shauna Kimball
Dottie – our thoughts & prayers are with you. I have such warm, wonderful memories of Billy and I know you do too. I hope those memories will comfort you in your time of need.
With love, Becky Gallagher & Eric
So very sorry to hear about Bill. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Arlene & Clayton Dolloff
Dottie, I have just gotten off the phone with Lynn and the news of Bill’s death. How sad she and Jim were, you are one of her favorite family members and she was relating many enjoyable times you all shared together – always enjoyed Bill’s fun and wit. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. I too lost my Bill and it isn’t easy. With a heavy heart, God is so Good.
Blessings, Mary Frances Morton (Lynn’s mom). P.S. A friend wrote – Sometimes prayer is the only gift we can send.
These entries put up by:
Cindy Hicks
February 27, 2008
Dear Dottie,
You are in my thoughts daily (you & Bill are always in my heart). There always seems to be a smile on my face when I'm remembering anything about him. Never were two people more deserving of the happiness found with each other.
Keep looking to the stars. . .I am!
Love, Cindy
Bill keeping on top of building Rainbows End
Tom Brophy
February 22, 2008
Today Bill's Sister Marsha and I had a quiet lunch out to celebrate our 22nd wedding anniversary. The rest of the day was spent at our home on the Shore of Bow Lake. The home we have lived in for 20 years, a home that we would not have been able to build without a great amount of help from family and friends. Bill and his Brother John’s skill, knowledge and leadership made Rainbows End possible. During construction Bill really kept on top of things as you can see in the attached photo.
Dorothea Auchterlonie
February 22, 2008
The following is a poem written and presented by Bruce MacDougall at the celebration of Bill’s life that I wanted to share on Bill's guestbook.
When I first met Bill in junior high;
my first impression was "Who is this guy?"
The girls all loved him and his brother John,
should I be friends with them even if they weren't NH born?
I asked ole Bud what kind of name they had?
Scottish, like us, he informed this young lad!
Our friendship grew over the years,
and I must admit - we had a few beers!
He had a great attitude and laughed a lot;
His love for running inspired me and his advice I sought.
I will remember him often as I head out for a run;
he was a beacon of joy and a whole lot of fun!
His obituary said "he lived a happy life."
Which is the ultimate compliment to his family and wife.
It doesn't really matter - our station in life or our wealth;
we should thank the good lord and pray for our health!
Thank you Bruce, Dorothea
Nancy Mills
February 21, 2008
I don't recall the first time I met Bill. He was a name that my husband mentioned to me long before I had the pleasure of meeting his "partner in crime." They'd run and then have a beer, and I knew that when they were together, time stood still ... or at least they thought so. Several hours late, my spouse would saunter into the house with a grin on his face as if nothing was wrong. They'd never get into real trouble, but they always had stories to tell about their travels around the area and the people they'd visit, and Bill always had a twinkle in his eye when those stories were told.
Two of my memories of Bill include music. I remember him sitting on our porch when we lived in Hill, playing his guitar and encouraging me to join in with mine even though my skill was nowhere near his. He loved making and sharing music. I also remember Bill dancing, at class reunions, at the Social Center, just about any time a 50's or 60's song was played, and he'd dance with such energy and joy. Every time I hear a song by the Stray Cats, I think of him.
Bill cared about people, and he would go out of his way to help his friends. He was a very smart man who didn't make that intelligence obvious to others. He'd learned much in his life and could talk about almost anything, but he was still curious to learn more. I admire that. The only memory that makes me roll my eyes is about his love of golf, especially his watching it endlessly on television. I guess I just didn't see the allure, but he surely did.
Bill Auchterlonie was a good man. I'm very glad I had the good fortune and honor to be his friend.
Tom Brophy
February 21, 2008
The following condolences have been extracted from Bill’s guestbook at the Dewhirst Funeral Home web site at Dorothea's request.
02/20/2008 Ann
Groveland, MA, USA
I am a friend of Judy's. I know I have always heard such wonderful things about her brother. I wish to let you all know that you are in my prayers. Ann Coughlin
02/19/2008 Kathy Gilman
Laconia, NH,
Dorothea: I was so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. Although I never got to know him well, Bill was always a pleasure to be around at the various Byse/Bristol company functions and he always seemed to have a smile on his face. I know you will miss him terribly. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Kathy
02/16/2008 Brenda & Bob Brunt
Pahrump, Nevada,
Dorothea, we want you to know we are thinking of you and your family. Sorry that we can't be there with you. Bob always appreciated Bill's professionalism when they worked together at Freudenberg. He was a true gentleman. Sincerely, Brenda & Bob
02/16/2008 Doug Payne
New Hampton, NH, United States
My Condolences to " cousin Bill's family ". He used tell me that I was the only normal one in the family when I was a teenager and it used to make me laugh. I have many fond memories of football, left over turkey, coffee, and reading the paper at Nana&PopPop's. Love Doug
02/16/2008 Steve & Rhoda Capron
nottingham, nh, usa
Couldn't make it to the service, but we send our love and we're thinking of you.
02/15/2008 Kelley Howes
Tallahassee, Fl, USA
Jill, Billy, and Dotty my heart and prayers go out to you in this time. Bill was a fun loving man, full of laughter and energy as I recall over the last ten years. Remember the good times as he would want you all too. I love you all and wish I could be there for you as well. There was no doubt as to how much your dad loved you guys. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Love Always, ~Kelley
02/15/2008 Tony & Budget
St Joe Beach, FL, USA
Dot; We were very sorry to hear of Bill's passing. He will be remembered and loved forever in our hearts. Loved the picture, it does so reflect Bill and his spirit. We shall miss him so. Our deapest sympathy. Love; Budget & Tony
02/15/2008 Duke & Kathy Evans
Wentworth, NH, USA
Dorothea So sorry to hear of Bill's passing. He was such a warm and friendly man and always had a smile on his face even when times were not good for him. He will surely be missed by all who knew him. Our sincerest sympathy to you and members of your family.
02/15/2008 Tony
St Joe Beach, FL, USA
Dear Dot; I just wanted to share some thoughts with you I have of Bill. I have to say to you that I am so glad you married him as this allowed me to get to know him. Our running gave us a common bond even though we were at the opposite ends of both the starting line and finish line.......He was "great". His laugh,it was so undeniably Bill. That special "crackle" was so unique/never imitated/never duplicated...It was Bill. Women loved him, especially one I know for sure, as the number of "peach-pies" always outnumbered the "blueberry" in any given year! Miss her too. Oops, out of space/I miss him so much....Tony
02/15/2008 Rita Caldwell Tucker
Ludlow , VT, Windsor
Dear Dotty, I am so sorry to hear about Billy. I will always remember the fun times we had at "Moody's" when we were just kids growing up. It seems not so long ago. Please know I am thinking of you and hope you will find peace knowing Billy will be whole again in heaven. Sincerely,Rita
02/15/2008 Brian Young
Hooksett, New Hampshire, USA
For Jill and family I am very sorry for your loss. Although I never met him I do know how very much he was loved as Jill always spoke about him with the greatest respect and the fondest of words. Her smile was always a sure sign she was thinking of him. Jacqui and I send our love and our hearts go out to you and your family. Please take care and let us know if there is anything we can do.
02/14/2008 Jo & Scott White
Strafford, NH,
Dottie and Family, We were so lucky to have enjoyed good times with Bill and you at Marsha & Tom's! Your husband was so courageous throughout his illness and so blessed to have you at his side! Please know we will keep Bill, you and your family in our prayers...God's blessings and love, Jo & Scott
Entries put up by:
Running with Dad
Bill Auchterlonie
February 21, 2008
I’d like to say a few words about my father.
I guess I’ll start with things I’ve learned from my father. Well maybe that’s not exactly how to phrase it… cause as people that know me can attest I sometimes have trouble with lessons, a bit thick headed at times. I guess what I want to talk about is things that my dad showed me, experiences that he exposed me to.
He always led me in the direction of healthy, live strong activities. I wasn’t much more than 6 or 7 when I started running with him. He’d have me out there, doing jumping jacks and stretching with him as a warm up. Then we’d head down for the mile run to the end of the Boake’s air strip. There’s actually a picture of us running over on that collage of pictures (see photo). He’s running next to me during a road race, pacing me towards a great finish. Of course, at the time all I was thinking was that I almost beat me dad (I don’t think he actually let me win) …but I realize now what he was doing.
As you all know, dad was a great all around tradesman. He could do anything from float a slab of concrete, cut down large trees, to build a wild house around a handful of huge boulders. Around the house he could do just about anything. Whenever he had a chore to do he had me alongside him learning. Whether it was fixing the float in toilet tank or learning how to build a deck by making sure the boards were laid curve side down so they didn’t catch water as they weathered. I remember him showing me how to start a fire in the woodstove and even how to install pink insulation. I think the only thing he didn’t show me to do around the house was run the chainsaw, but he sure did show me how to stack wood.
There were many other life lessons. Some small, such as the time he picked me up from a school event and I was walking across an icy parking lot with my hands stuffed in my pockets. He yelled after me to always keep your hands free, to catch myself in case I fell. Even last week he was talking to me about increasing my 401k contribution and getting renters insurance. He always had fatherly advice, trying his best to lead me down the right path.
Another thing that later in life I cherish about my father was how much he participated in my life. He was always there. The couple times I was in the hospital both at age two and in high school he stayed by my side through the night so that I would not be alone. For many years he was there every day after school so he could pick up my sister and me, going to work very early in the morning so he could be there at 3 O’clock when school was out.
Not only was he at every sporting event I participated in, but most of the time he was the coach. He was my little league coach for several years. He started coaching running and assisting Mr. Mills when I was in 4th grade. He was always there, always part of the team. Whether he was running alongside us during training, or keeping a bunch of hyper kids in line on the team bus, he was always there.
He also let me participate in his life. As a kid I often tagged along on visits to his buddies. Over to Mr. Mill’s house, or Harvey’s camp, or down to Boake’s hanger or sand pit. He’d bring his little kid along. And I’m not sure his friends always appreciated this hyper kid running around, but I sure did love the visits. I think it was in these times that I got to see a great man in action, saw his generosity, kindness and humor.
A great Husband and Father
Dorothea Auchterlonie
February 21, 2008
Kind, considerate, generous, funny, faithful, witty, caring, loving, loved: these are a few adjectives that describe Billy Auchterlonie, my husband.
We all throw around the phrase “life isn’t always fair.” But that was so true in Bill’s case. This man who loved to golf and was excellent at it, who lived to run and excelled at that and enjoyed physical activity. This man whose life was reduced to choosing what chair he was going to sit in for the day. Why was he struck with Shy Drager disease that robbed him of his balance, his mobility, his voice, his dexterity, his vision and finally his breath?
But through it all he kept his wonderful sense of humor which sustained him and his family and friends:
His co-workers and the “knotheads” who worked for him would stop by or ask after him.
His great friends: Earl & Nancy; Ronnie & Mary; Jimmy & Ann; David & Donna; Earl and Barbara, Boakie & Betty and Beverly. True friends who were there when we needed them. When I “dropped” him on several occasions one of them was a phone call away. Ronnie & Mary who came that awful morning to be with me.
His caring family: Marsha & Tom; Judy & Dave; John and Joan and all their children who would call or visit and bring him goodies and brighten his day.
My children: Lisa, Kip and Kyle and their spouses Bernie, Sharon and Carrie who grew to love him.
My brother, Charlie and his wife Cindy who called almost daily, sent him books and audio books and visited frequently from Ohio. Charlie’s generous offer of his cottage in Camden, Maine, a place Bill loved to be even when I dragged Beverly along.
And finally his wonderful children: Billy and Jill who he loved with all his heart. They had a few difficult years when it was just the three of them but they got through those times and the bond between them was strengthened. He loved their frequent calls and visits. He had worried about them but lately he came to feel they were settling down with good jobs and friends and would be OK with their futures.
This wonderful man was my husband, your brother, your brother-in-law, your uncle, your cousin, your friend, your stepfather, your grandfather and your loving father and we all miss him.
Carol (Ordway) Dougherty
February 20, 2008
I have not seen Billy since he and my brother Dalton joined the Marine Corps in 1964 and was totally in awe to read the orbituary. I feel very badly for all of the family in this time of loss.
Peter Daniels
February 20, 2008
I feel like one of the luckiest guy's in the world to have had Billy as a friend. I have many stories about Billy but I would rather use the word experiences that all bring a smile to my face when ever I think of him. There was one experience in the winter at Paul O'Connors with Billy riding Pauls snowmobile on Newfound Lake.You don't have to use much imagination because only Billy could get it stuck in the water on the ice after being warned. We all got soaked getting the snowmobile and Billy back to shore. It took a while because we couldn't stop laughing. This is just one of many experiences I was fortunate enough to have with Billy. Billy lent a whole new meaning to the word,"special". He was truely a very special person.I will really miss my friend Billy. I just know where ever Billy is everyone there has a smile on there face.
An Old Friend, Peter Daniels
Ann Sheffield
February 20, 2008
Dear Dorothea, you said it would make you very happy if Saturday everyone would speak about Billy even if just to say one word that described him.......
There were 40 years from the last time I saw Billy to the day Jimmy and I came by your home on our first "date".........when I walked up to the door, he said he was so glad to see me, but why did I bring "that guy" :).........I thought .....the same adorably funny boy I used to know...........little did I know how much he had changed and grown during those 40 years. Jimmy had "cautioned" me that he was struggling with this disease, but in the next three years, I forgot so often that he was. We spent so much time with the two of you, and every time was so much fun and heartwarming. And I came to see that Billy had grown to be a remarkable man.....
...........and so my word is "dignity"...........he lived with dignity........every day of his struggle. And you were his precious partner in that journey.........how blessed you two were to share that special love. Jimmy and I loved him, and we love you, and we are always here for you. Love, Ann
Roger & Bonnie Leclerc
February 19, 2008
Jill and Bill,
Roger and I were very saddened to hear of your loss. We both thought the world of your Dad and will always remember the wonderful vacation we shared in Mexico with your Dad and Mom. You are both in our thoughts and prayers.
Kevin & Pam White
February 18, 2008
Our hearts and sympathy go out to the family and friends of Bill. He and his smile will be sorely missed by all that knew him.
John auchterlonie
February 17, 2008
A prayer for Bill
Thank you Lord for giving us Bill, though his time with us was far too short. Bill was not overtly religious, but I'm sure the way he lived his life made you proud, a model for us all. His spirit touched everyone he met. He was a wonderful husband, father, son, brother and friend. Please comfort those who are grieving his loss, especially Dot, Jill and Billy. Dotties love and caring for Bill was truly amazing. So Lord, as we remember Bill and share great memories of his life, please speed him on his journey to a better place, where he can rest in peace with you. Love,
Your brother John
Kelly Caldwell
February 15, 2008
If there was anyone who could make me laugh, it was Bill. He had a very comforting way about him, and I am so grateful I had the chance to know him. I am sending all my prayers to Dorothea and his family in this very difficult time of loss. May you rest in peace, Bill. I love you.
William Plante
February 15, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Victor & Kathy Field
February 15, 2008
Sorry to hear about your loss. Bill was a great guy and will be missed.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Rita Wright
February 15, 2008
Jill & family,
I have heard so many stories about your Dad that I feel like I knew him.
My heart is very sad for you but you are in my prayers.
Love Rita
Tom Brophy
February 15, 2008
Bill was an exceptionally caring and helpful brother-in-law. He handled his crippling disease with the same sense of humor, dedication to family and friends, and determination that he lived his entire life with. He will be greatly missed. Rest in peace Bill. Love, Tom.
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