Awarded Bronze Star; was happiest relaxing with his family and friends
NORTH READING — William “Bill” F. Colbert, 90, died Thursday, September 8, 2022 at the Lahey Hospital and Medical Center in Burlington. He was the beloved husband of Patricia Colbert, with whom he resided in North Reading for most of their 67-year marriage.
Born in Illinois, Bill was the son of the late Harley and Edna Colbert. After graduation, he enlisted in the Marine Corps and proudly served in the Korean War, receiving many commendations, including the Bronze Star with “V.” Bill later earned his college degree and received drafting education while working evenings at the Cities Service station in Boston, whose location is now marked by the historic Citgo sign. He went on to work for MIT Lincoln Laboratories for 37 years.
Bill was an avid sports fan and never missed a chance to espouse the trials and tribulations of his beloved New York football Giants. He coached Little League and helped run the recreational basketball league in North Reading where he rarely missed the weekly evening pickup games. Bill was also a talented woodworker, constructing cabinets and furniture for family. He was happiest spending relaxing time with his family and friends.
Bill is survived by his wife, Patricia, and his two daughters, Leslie Audet and her husband Andrew, and Laurie Colbert and her partner Scott Daly. His grandchildren, Zachary Audet and Gabrielle Audet, will miss his sage advice and teasing sense of humor. Bill is also survived by his sister, Norma Mahaney, as well as many nieces and nephews. His siblings, Wilma Williams, Etta Brown, Velma Colbert, John Colbert, and Robert Colbert predecease him.
Visitation will be held on Friday, September 23 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Bill’s memory to the Parks and Recreation Dept., Town Hall, 235 North Street, North Reading, MA 01864.
To send an online message of condolence please visit www.croswellfuneralhome.com.
