William Rockwell Read

William R. "Bill" Read, 66, of Canton, Massachusetts passed away peacefully on October 26, 2023. Born on November 24, 1956, in Elmira, New York, Bill was the son of Edwin James Read and Kathleen Ann Read (Brennan). A loving brother and uncle, he leaves behind his sister Susan Read Jones and her husband Brian of New Hartford, Connecticut, his brother E. James Read Jr. and his wife Jeanne of Frederick, Maryland, niece Kristen Read, and nephews James Read, and Christopher Jones.

Bill grew up primarily in Acton, Massachusetts where he graduated from Action high school. He furthered his educational interests by earning a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from the University of Massachusetts, and a Master of Science degree in computer information systems from Bentley University. Bill’s high academic achievement qualified him to become a member of the Beta Gamma Sigma international business honor society.  His education laid the groundwork for a successful career in managing information databases for various financial companies in the greater Boston area. After gaining substantial experience, Bill embarked on starting his own software consulting business, with a focus on training to apply advanced financial system software.   Bill traveled extensively on business to many parts of the world, with Japan holding a special place in his heart.

Bill had many interests and passions, not the least of which included a lifelong participation and leadership in Al-Anon, helping himself and others.   An avid hiker, he channeled his love for the outdoors into becoming a certified mountain guide. He hiked with many groups large and small over high peaks of the Appalachian Mountains, sharing the beauty of nature in all the seasons including winter expeditions.  Bill also kept himself in great physical shape as an avid cyclist.  In quiet moments Bill loved drawing and reading.  Bill was an accomplished student of U.S. history, who routinely visited and studied historical landmarks and battlefields across the U.S.  In later years Bill became an experienced practitioner of Zen to cultivate inner harmony and awareness in each moment.

Perhaps Bill’s greatest passion and pleasure were decades long friendships he cultivated, and that were enhanced through his quiet demeanor, humbleness, inquisitive nature, and listening ability.  He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.  Bill’s spirit will forever be remembered in the hearts of those he touched and who knew him.

Bill instructed that there be no wake or funeral services, and that his cremated remains be spread along the shoreline in Chatham, Massachusetts.  The family anticipates the planning of a future event for Bill’s friends and business associates to meet and share remembrances. 

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