William T. "Bill" Bodge

William Thomas “Bill” Bodge, 70, of West Hatfield, MA passed away at Brigham & Women’s Hospital in Boston with his brother Greg by his side, after a two-year period of declining health.  He handled his recent illnesses and frequent hospitalizations with patience, grace, and dignity.

He was born in Springfield, MA on July 28, 1954 and grew up in East Longmeadow, graduating from East Longmeadow High School in 1972.  He continued his education in psychology at Westfield State University, and in communication studies at the University of Massachusetts, where he managed a campus television station, WSYL, in his residence area.

Bill’s work life was diverse and worthy of his many talents, including years spent as a shows and events coordinator at LEGO in Enfield, CT, a manager at Main Street Records and The Army Barracks in Northampton, and later, as the personal assistant and house manager for retired CEO and engineer-inventor, the late James S. Hardigg of Conway. 

His intellect, and interest in music, art, literature, and history made him great company and a pleasure to have as a dinner guest.  He had an encyclopedic knowledge of classical music, and was an expert on railroad mergers and acquisitions as source material for a lifelong hobby of model railroading.  He was one of the last true Renaissance men and will be sorely missed by his close circle of family and friends, not only for his wit and wisdom, but also his loyalty and generosity.  If Bill was in your corner, you had a champion and an ally like no other. 

He was the son of the late Francis O. Bodge III and Adwilda T. (Corriveau) Bodge.  He leaves his brother, Gregory O. Bodge and sister-in-law Christie, of Virginia, sister Courtney T. D’Amico and brother-in-law John, of Georgia, sister Maxine F. Connor and brother-in-law Bill of Florida, and nieces and nephews Isaac, Whitney, Lauren, Monica, David, Angela, Jeffrey, Michelle, Dawn and Jennifer, and many great-nieces and great-nephews.   He also leaves his friend of almost fifty years, Bonnie Messenger, who helped him live independently when his health was declining.

He was predeceased by his sister, Patricia A. Chene and former brother-in-law Tony, brother Francis O. Bodge IV, and nephew Francis O. Bodge V. 

Barry J. Farrell of Holyoke is entrusted with Bill’s care.  Services are private.   

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