Retired Melrose police officer
MELROSE — Willis (Bill) Hardy Jr., of Melrose passed away on Tuesday, April 9 at the age of 80.
Bill is survived by his wife of 52 years, Patricia (Rahilly) Hardy. Father to Tom Hardy, Pam Bukowski, Bridget Hardy; and predeceased James (Jim) Hardy and Willis (Billy) Hardy III. Grandfather to Rachel McNally, Andrea Hardy, Ryan Hardy, Christopher Hardy, Brooke Hardy, Leah Hardy, Jenna Bukowski, Paige Bukowski and Olivia Hardy; and great grandfather to Elle McNally and Roxy. Brother to Charles (Skipper) Hardy and George Hardy.
Bill was the son of Willis Hardy Sr. and Mary Hardy, born in June of 1943. Bill graduated from Melrose High School class of 1962. Bill played baseball, football and hockey. He was an All-Star athlete in each sport and went on to play semi-pro hockey. Bill then became a police officer for the city of Melrose and retired after 36 years of service.
Visiting hours were held at Gately Funeral Home on Wednesday, April 17 from 4 to 8 p.m. A funeral service was held at Gately Funeral Home on Thursday, April 18 at 11 a.m. Interment in Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose. Visit gatelyfh.com.
