William J. Duval, 79, of Ashburnham

Ashburnham - William J. Duval, Jr., 79, of Ashburnham, passed away in his home on Saturday morning, May 9, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Bill was born in Hardwick, MA on January 9, 1947, a son of the late, William J. and Gicelle (Gaudreau) Duval and has resided in Ashburnham since 1993. He was a Vietnam veteran, having served in the United States Army prior to his honorable discharge in 1968. Throughout his career, Bill worked for several companies including, San-Vel Concrete, James River Paper Company and Chem Design, but most recently had worked for the past several years in the maintenance department at Wachusett Mountain prior to his retirement. Bill’s life was centered on his relationship with God, and his strong faith was evident in the way he treated others with grace, selflessness, generosity, and care. Steady and humble in spirit, he found fulfillment in supporting those around him and always placing others ahead of himself. He found his greatest happiness in life’s simple blessings; family, fishing, and being there whenever someone needed a helping hand. Some of his happiest days were spent fishing the waters of the Quabbin and Merrimack alongside his brothers, creating memories and sharing stories that lasted a lifetime. He especially cherished time with his grandchildren, often spending entire days behind the wheel of the boat just to see them laugh and smile while tubing on the lake. Their happiness meant everything to him. In retirement, he discovered a passion for woodworking, crafting beautiful Adirondack chairs and handcrafted American flags that reflected both his talent and pride. He also became an avid gardener, transforming his property into one of the most admired yards on the lake showing a reflection of the care, patience, and dedication he put into everything he loved. He will be remembered most for his unwavering faith, generous heart, quiet strength, and the deep love he had for his family and the life he built around them. He leaves his wife of 53 years, Mary Jane (Leger) Duval of Ashburnham; his son, Jesse W. Duval and his wife Pamela of Westminster; his daughter, Lisa L. Provencher, and her husband Allan of Templeton; two brothers, Ronald Duval of Fitchburg and John Duval and his wife Karen of Westminster; two sisters, Florence Helie and Diane Keenan, both of Fitchburg; Seven grandchildren, Racheal Deschenes, and her husband Alex, Ivy Santora, Kaylee Letendre, Rebekah Belthrop, and her husband, Jordan, Dylan Duval, Bryce Duval and Meya Duval; seven great grandchildren, Jacob, Mason, Jaxon, Aurora, Grayson, Kayson, and Orion and numerous nieces and nephews. Bill was preceded in death by his brother Raymond Duval of Leominster. A chapel service will be held with full military honors, on Thursday, May 21 at 2 PM in the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 111 Glenallen St., Winchendon. There are no calling hours. The Isabelle & Anderson Funeral Home, 316 Clarendon St., Fitchburg is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements. In lieu flowers memorial contributions may be made to the UMass Cancer Center.

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William J. Duval, 79, of Ashburnham

January 9, 1947 - May 9, 2026