William P. Frates

William “Bill” Frates, age 83, passed away Tuesday, May 15, 2018 in St. Luke’s Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He was the husband of Geraldine (DeMello) Frates to whom he had just celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.

Raised in New Bedford, a son of the late John P. and Sally (Witkos) Frates, he moved to Acushnet in 1970. He was a graduate of New Bedford High School where he played football, baseball and basketball. He then attended New Bedford Institute of Technology and also served in the Army. He then became a lineman and belonged to the Local 104. Bill and his wife started a family business, Acushnet Power Lines where he was a master electrician. Bill was a hard worker and loved his family. He enjoyed being home and spending time with his family, in his garden, reading, cooking Sunday dinner, and his pool. He also enjoyed spending time in Florida during the winter months and going to the Red Sox Spring Training.Bill and his humor will be greatly missed.

In addition to his loving wife, he is survived by their seven children, Bill, Leslie, Francis, Lisa, Lynne, Maryanne and Joseph; five grandchildren, Jamie, Derek, Lauren, Olivia, and David; five great-grandchildren, Jyzair, Mikyle, Reignon, Colin and Travis; and several nieces and nephews. He was also the brother of the late John Frates and Evelyn Perry.

His family will receive relatives and friends starting at 9:30 am Saturday, June 2, 2018 at St. Rose of Lima Church, 282 Vaughan Hill Road, Rochester, MA 02770 followed by a memorial mass at 10:00AM. Burial will be at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of ROCK FUNERAL HOME, 1285 Ashley Blvd, New Bedford, MA 02745. To leave a note of condolence: www.rock-funeralhome.com