Pine Plains, NY - William J. "Bill" Boyles Sr., 74, was called home on Saturday, April 30, 2016 at Noble Horizons in Salisbury, CT following a courageous battle with cancer while holding the hand of Bonnie, his best friend and wife of fifty one years.
He was born on December 17, 1941 in Gt. Barrington, MA, son of the late Arthur (Pat) and Helena (Yando) Boyles.
After graduation from Pine Plains Central School in 1960, he enlisted in the United States Air Force from 1960-1964. He met and married Bonnie (Schindler) on July 18, 1964 at March Air Force Base Chapel in Riverside, CA.
The young couple traveled to Pine Plains, NY where they resided until present.
Bill loved and took great pride in his hometown of Pine Plains but his first and lasting love was his family. He enjoyed owning the Stissing Deli and Ice Cream Parlor for seven years where he routinely greeted his committed customers with funny and entertaining stories. During this time Bill was also a school bus driver for the PPCSD.
As a member of the Pine Plains Business Association, he was instrumental in starting Pine Plains Town Decorating Day which has successfully continued for the past thirty years. (Come to Pine Plains at 3 pm on the last Saturday of following Thanksgiving!) Bill was so proud to be honored as the Grand Marshall of the Parade of Lights this past year.
The American flags placed throughout the town for various holidays were another event started by Bill. He also participated annually in the Memorial Day Parade.
Another great accomplishment was Bill's appointment as School Lunch Manager of the PPCSD. From the first day of employment, students will always remember being greeted by the wonderful smells from the kitchen-freshly baked rolls, pastries and donuts. Memories of his famous eggers still linger. He retired in 2007.
Bill was a member of the Shacameco American Legion Post 426. Former Pine Plains Lions Club member. He has received numerous plaques thanking him for his contributions and dedication.
Five years ago Bill and Bonnie became members of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Lakeville, CT.
In addition to his loving wife Bonnie, survivors include two daughters, Kelly (David) Bartholf; Kristy (James) Moriarty; a son, William J. (Candy) Boyles Jr.; a brother, John "Norman" and his wife Patricia Boyles; seven grandchildren, Heather (Christopher) Smith, Ashley (Charlie) Lansdell, B.J. (WmIII), Ryan and Alyssa Boyles, Brendan and Makayla Moriarty as well as two great grandchildren, Callie Smith and Aubrie Lansdell. several nieces and nephews.
There are no calling hours.
Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, May 4, 2016 at 11 AM from St. Mary's Catholic Church 76 Sharon Rd. Lakeville, CT 06039 with Fr. Joseph G.M. Kurnath officiating.
Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to the PPBA Christmas Fund PO Box 651 Pine Plains, NY 12567. Or St. Mary's Catholic Church PO Box 466 Lakeville, CT 06039.