William Arthur Sbrega

William Arthur Sbrega passed away at home on June 10. He leaves his wife, Linda Winkler Sbrega; two brothers: Jack (wife Jo-Anne Manijak Sbrega), and Dennis (wife Diane Mancini); and Brother-in-Law Jim Winkler (wife Deb Somers), Sister-in-Law Karen Winkler, Sister-in-Law Susan Forester (Husband Lee), four nieces: Natalie Sbrega Blough (husband Bob), Christianne Sbrega (wife Jess), Molly Sbrega Marino (Husband A.J.), and Sarah Forester Mancini (Husband Frankie); two nephews: Dan Sbrega (Wife Melissa Dallon); and Dominic Sbrega; as well as several Grand Nieces and Grand Nephews.

Bill and Linda enjoyed a loving relationship for more than 36 years. Linda was the love of his life, and their idyllic marriage served as a model for everyone. Bill was a key force in the lives of all who knew him. His extraordinary wit and charm endeared him to everyone, young and old. He paid special attention to their annual "Sbrega Weekends," chalking the badminton court on his lawn, preparing for the arrival of Santa and the Easter Bunny, creating-and enhancing-the time-honored special pasta sauce (from its family origins in Italy), demonstrating his expertise at the pool table with dazzling trick shots, and organizing the all-seasons swimming pool and hot tub extravaganzas. Linda and Bill ensured that throughout these annual events no one in the family ever suffered a dull moment!

A Holyoke native, Bill received his education in city schools (Metcalf Elementary; Lynch Junior High School, and Holyoke High School). He then went on to earn his B.A. in Music at the (then) University of Lowell. Music, particularly guitar and keyboard, played a preeminent role throughout Bill's life. During his high school and college years, Bill served with distinction as a founding member of the immensely popular and illustrious band: "The Bristol Curries." Also, during his college years, Bill played keyboard with not only local Lowell-region bands but also entertained in solo performances at community nursing and elderly-assistant homes. After a valuable professional development band-touring period traveling throughout the Midwest, Bill returned to Holyoke to teach music in the public schools. In his classroom, Bill left a rich legacy as a popular and effective educator; someone who cared deeply for his students and for his subject material. His former students still recall his expertise and his gentle humanity. His lively presentations on all aspects of Music enriched their lives. Moreover, through his expertise, Bill also passed along a genuine love of music to every generation of his family that continues to this day.

Another valuable learning experience for Bill emerged in his keyboard experience with the new, local Oldies Band, "The Crescents." Formed largely on local talent, particularly featuring the amazing voice of Jimmy Taylor, the Crescents attracted widespread popularity throughout the region. Bill referred to this experience as a premier part of his professional life.

One of Bill's most interesting experiences developed from his lifetime close friendship with Mike Kitteridge. Mike recruited Bill to not only work at Yankee Candle but also simultaneously play in the Yankee Candle Band and compose many original songs.

After retiring, Bill found great enjoyment in performing (in rationed time) for community elderly and nursing home audiences. They loved his corny jokes and "oldy" tunes. Bill's witty humor and erudite presentations earned him remarkable receptions in his audiences.

At Bill's request, services will remain private. People may care to honor his legacy with a donation to American Diabetes Association www.diabetes.org Bill will be greatly missed. He would always light up a room. And, now, we all are in a darker place because of the loss of his luminescence. Bill, R.I.P.

Boucher - O'Brien Funeral Home in Easthampton has been entrust with Bill's cremation.