Wilfred “Bill” J. Addison III, 70, formerly of Wiscasset and Big Moose, N.Y., passed away on Sept. 25 in Charlotte, N.C. He was born on Dec. 20, 1942 in Syracuse, N.Y. to Wilfred J. Addison Jr. and Jennie D. Addison Rausch.
Bill attended North Syracuse High School, where he met Carole Masterpool; the high-school sweethearts married in 1966. He received his degrees from, Rutgers University, Syracuse University and George Washington University. Bill spent his 37-year career as a healthcare executive, ultimately retiring in 2006 as President and CEO of Inland Hospital in Waterville.
Bill loved the Adirondack Mountains in New York and the Maine coast. For many years, he devoted himself to the restoration of his family’s camp in the woods in Big Moose, N.Y., which had been built by his grandfather in the 1920s. He never missed an opportunity to spend time in this Adirondack retreat along with family, especially his brother Stefan L. Addison and numerous cousins. He was always eager for the next “Adirondack adventure” and made Big Moose a special haven full of memories for his family.
In his retirement Bill was always busy with projects from woodworking to landscape painting. He enjoyed hiking, always with a Springer Spaniel at his side; skiing with friends and family, including an annual trip to Utah with the “Ski Bums”; and riding his Harley along coastal Maine roads. His greatest joy was his three grandchildren, Sarah, Bennett and Sophie. He taught his children and grandchildren his love of nature, the value of a close-knit family, the beauty of a great story, and the importance of satisfying a sweet tooth.
Bill is survived by his wife of 47 years, Carole; son, John Addison (wife Laura) of Santa Fe, N.M.; daughter, Beth Eastridge (husband Jade) of Charlotte, N.C.; grandchildren, Sarah and Bennett Eastridge and Sophie Addison; brother, Stefan Addison (partner Elizabeth) of New York and Florida; and numerous cousins, nephews, and nieces.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., Sat., Oct. 19 at the First Congregational Church of Wiscasset, reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a personal donation at your local blood bank.
