William D. Gonsalves

William D. “Bill” Gonsalves, 61, of Dartmouth, passed away on Wednesday, May 11, 2011 at home following a brave battle with cancer. He was the loving husband of Donna (Sherman) Gonsalves, married 37 years; and son of Albert M. and Arlene (Perry) Gonsalves of Fairhaven.

Bill grew up in Fairhaven and lived in Dartmouth for 33 years.

Bill was a graduate of New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School and East Coast Aeronautical Technical Institute. He served proudly in the Vietnam War as a member of the United States Army, 1st Cavalry Division and was the recipient of the Vietnam Service Medal with three bronze service stars. Following the service, he received an Associates Degree from Bristol Community College.

He was employed as an engineering manager for Endeco, Maxim and Design Mark Industries. Most recently he was an Operations Manager at VR Industries. Bill spent his last years doing what he loved most – repairing and building motorcycles. In his free time, in addition to spending time with his children and grandchildren, he enjoyed salt water fishing with friends and riding his 1978 Harley.

Bill leaves behind daughters, Jennifer DeMailly of Dartmouth and Jill Gonsalves of Warwick; and son, Jesse Gonsalves and girlfriend, Bethany Helme of New Bedford as well as three grandchildren, Emma Kate DeMailly, Evan Carvalho and Jaxson Gonsalves.

He was the brother of Barbara Lamy and husband Roger of Mattapoisett and the late Cathy Gonsalves. Bill also leaves behind close brother and sister-in-laws as well as several nieces and nephews. He also had many treasured friends.

Bill’s family would like to thank the staff at Charlton Memorial Hospital. They also extend special thanks to hospice nurse Paul for his help and kindness during Bill’s last days.

Contributions in Bill’s memory may be made to the New England Shelter for Homeless Veterans, 17 Court St., Boston, MA 02108.

The family is making plans for a special memorial service at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of the Waring-Sullivan Home of Memorial Tribute at Dartmouth. For online tributes please visit: www.waring-sullivan.com.