William Van Laarhoven Jr.

William “Bill” Van Laarhoven, age 87, of Fall River, MA passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, February 21, 2026. He lived a life marked by laughter, kind-heartedness, and dedication to his family and friends.

Bill shared a devoted and loving 36-year relationship with Doris “Dee” Formisano, who survives him. Their bond was one of love and caring. Together they created a life filled with shared memories and simple joys, including visiting local restaurants, taking trips to parks and casinos, and taking many cruise vacations.

Bill was born in North Stoughton, MA, son of the late William Van Laarhoven, Sr. and the late Jennie (McNeil) Van Laarhoven, brother of the late Shirley (Van Laarhoven) Cole. He is survived by his brother, Edward Van Laarhoven from New Bedford, MA. Bill was a resident of Bridgewater and Easton for many years before moving to Fall River 28 years ago. He was a graduate of Norfolk Agricultural School, class of 1958, and he served in the Army National Guard.

Bill was employed as a truck driver with Howard Johnson’s for 38 years until his retirement in 1995, and he looked forward to lunches with his treasured coworkers from HoJo’s during his retirement. He was an avid golfer and gardener who enjoyed horseshoes and fishing during his youth.

Bill is also survived by his two sons, William Van Laarhoven III and his wife Leslie of Easton, MA, and Brian Van Laarhoven and his wife Lucy of Southborough, MA; four grandchildren, Ross Van Laarhoven and his wife Kelly, Drew Van Laarhoven and his wife Jennifer, Emily Seong and her husband Junesoo, and Eric Van Laarhoven; two great grandchildren, Lily Van Laarhoven and Jihoon Seong. He is also survived by his former wife, Marie (Hanrahan) Van Laarhoven, her husband James Freedy of Boston, MA, many members of the extended “Hanrahan Clan,” Paul Formisano and his partner Laura Sullivan of Swansea, MA.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Funeral Mass which will be held on Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at 11:00 AM at St. Bernard’s Church, 30 S. Main St., Assonet, MA. The burial will take place at a later date. For directions or to place an online tribute, please visit: www.waring-sullivan.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation in Bill’s name to a charity of your choice.

Arrangements are in the care of the Waring-Sullivan Home at Cherry Place in Fall River.