Avid car enthusiast who could fix anything
Published June 4, 2020
READING — William J.D. Pike, 83, a longtime resident of Reading, formerly of Medford, passed away on May 27, 2020 peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family after a long, courageous battle with cancer.
Bill was born in East Providence, R.I. on March 12, 1937, the son of the late William and Grace (Phillips) Pike and stepson of the late Allan Prime. He was a graduate of Medford High School, Class of 1957. Upon graduation, he worked first at U.S. Gear and later at Avco/Textron as a machinist for 37 years. From the age of 17 and into retirement, he had a well-established reputation as a one of the best mechanics you’d ever meet. He was an avid car enthusiast, serving as chief mechanic to several top fuel drag racing teams over a 35-year period. At one time, he was one of the proud owners of the Mr. Boston top fuel dragster.
In his retirement he enjoyed exhibiting at and attending a variety of car shows. As a member of the NHRA and IHRA, he participated in several fundraising events including The Race Against Drugs, ALS research and The Make a Wish Foundation.
Bill was a gregarious guy with countless friends. He traveled over many years to New Brunswick and Nova Scotia to reconnect with the family and country he so loved. He was known for his unwavering work ethic, loyalty, integrity and animated story-telling. Always willing to help, Bill was the first person to roll up his sleeves and the last person to pack up his tool box. He was a self-taught, driving force who tirelessly supported his family and friends, could fix anything and was a mentor to many.
Bill was the beloved husband of Lois M. (Skillin) Pike. He was the devoted father of Joan P. Meltzer and her husband Jay of Lincoln, Jill M.P. Cain and her husband Bill of North Reading, and Jane A. Shields and her husband Stephen of Atkinson, N.H. He was the cherished brother of Susan Tasker of Nova Scotia, Canada, Ruby Duncan of Rye, N.H., Fred “Skip” Prime of Hamilton, the late Nancy Graham and the late Robert Prime. He was the loving grandfather of Jessica, Tim, Lauren and her husband Paul, Erin, Annie, Harry and Maggie. He was also the loving great-grandfather of Liana, Peter and Myra. Bill was also a cherished uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Due to the COVID-19 situation, a private burial will be held at Wood End Cemetery in Reading. A memorial service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. www.stjude.org.
Arrangements are in the care of the Douglass Edgerley and Bessom Funeral Home, Reading. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.johnbdouglassfuneralhome.com.
