William R. Boordsen
Waterford — William R. “Billy” Boordsen, 70, of Waterford, passed away peacefully Sunday, March 3, 2024, at Beechwood Rehabilitative and Care Center in New London.
Bill graduated from New London High School in 1972, and Mohegan College. He proudly retired as a postmaster from the United States Postal Service after serving 40 years in many Southeastern Connecticut communities. Post retirement, Bill also worked at the Mitchell College campus post office in New London. Bill loved his community and participated in many local organizations and served on many committees including New London Elks (Lodge Chaplain, Lodge Bulletin Committee), Goshen Fire Department (Executive Board, Newsletter, and Annual Fair Committees), Quaker Hill Lions Club (past president), New London Community Meals (weekly volunteer server), Waterford Senior Center, TOPS family, and St. Joseph’s Community Parish (New London, parishioner).
Bill is survived by his sister Marsha (Edward) Ley of East Haven. He was predeceased by his loving parents, Belman “Bill” and Georgette Boordsen; his older sister, Helene Blaine; his maternal grandparents, Helen and Massoud Farhat; and paternal grandparents, Bernhardt Boordsen and Mary O’Driscoll. Bill was a proud uncle to nieces Katie (Ryan) Gavigan of Guilford, and Tricia (Michael) Quilter of Charlton, Mass.; and four great-nephews and -nieces: Joseph and Tessa Gavigan and Emily and Daniel Quilter. Bill is also survived by loving cousins, Margaret “Peggy” Chiappone, of East Lyme and Ronald Talge of Waterford.
Bill was a beloved son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, cousin, friend and neighbor to many. He shared his wonderful sense of humor and will truly be missed by all who knew him. Bill spent many fulfilling days with art classes, walking the boardwalk at Ocean Beach, singing and dancing at parties, playing board games, and most especially, spending time with dear friends. A concert, show and movie enthusiast, his particular enjoyment of the “I Love Lucy” show and displaying his memorabilia gave him great joy and lots of laughs. The family wants to especially recognize Diane, Martin and Michael for their lifelong friendships, but is thankful for all of his wonderful and many friends that became his extended family over the years. The family also wants to express their appreciation to the staff of Lawrence + Memorial Hospital Critical Care Unit (6-2) and the Beechwood facility for their compassionate care extended to Bill.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the New London Elks Lodge #360 (81 Washington St., New London, CT 06320), St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or a charity of your choice in his honor.
Calling hours are Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home, 12 Ocean Ave., New London. The funeral will assemble at 10:15 a.m. Monday and proceed to a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated in St. Joseph Church at 11 a.m. Interment will follow in St. Mary Cemetery. Condolences may be shared on Billy’s memorial page at www. neilanfuneralhome.com.