William F. Melanson Jr. of Canton and Falmouth passed away unexpectedly at BIDMC on October 6.  He was the son of the late Elle (Manter) and William F. Melanson Sr.  He was born and raised in Newton.  Bill leaves his beloved soulmate Joyce Murphy with whom he shared 33 years as of this weekend.  And, for that he was exceedingly grateful.  In addition to Joyce, he leaves many friends and family members particularly the Murphy, Flaherty, Williams and Sweeney families.

Bill served honorably in the US military, 11th cavalry US Army.  During the draft, he had the second highest draft number and immediately signed up to serve his country before he was called.

Professionally, Bill owned and operated as President of Tigar Electric, an electrical contracting company that designed and installed electrical engineering and fire safety systems for commercial and industrial properties.  He was an expert horseman and travelled around the world to ride with other expert equestrians. He also trained and cared for his own horses: Miss T; Zanzibar and Sweetie.  He was an outstanding chef, well known not only for his culinary skills but also for his presentation which was always beautiful.  He had a boat captain's license  and a 36 ft. craftsman that he kept at Marina Bay in Quincy.  After selling his boat, he chartered a boat in the Caribbean and cruised the British and American Virgin Islands.  He was also a lifelong Motown music fan.

To honor Bill's wishes, there will be no public services.  Although he was a man of great stature at 6'5', he was definitely understated by nature. Bill was deeply loved and will be sorely missed.

If you are so inclined, please consider making a donation in Bill's honor to Beth Israel Medical Center, 330 Brookline Ave., Boston MA 02215  Attn: Dr. Kathleen Lee, Palliative Care