William J. McClune, 74 of Worcester passed away peacefully Saturday June 24th 2017 with the family he loved gathered at his bedside after a long illness.

Bill was born in Worcester, one of four children of William J. McClune, Sr. and Rita (Quinn) McClune. He graduated from St Peter’s High School, and joined the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.  Upon his discharge in 1965, Bill married the “Love of his Life” Debra Herlihy.  He then earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Worcester State College and his master’s degree from Clark University and has lived in Worcester all his life.

Bill loved helping people.  He began by serving the citizens of Worcester as a police officer for twelve years; establishing and coordinating the Worcester Police Stress Unit, before retiring and accepting a position as a loss prevention manager for UPS, based in Waltham and Norwood.   Bill returned to serving the City of Worcester directing the Tobacco Control Unit.  He also taught criminal justice as an adjunct professor for Curry and Anna Maria College, a position he truly loved.

Bill is survived by his wife Debra; their three daughters, Krysten DeMauro, Aimee McClune and Debra Caffone and her husband John all of Worcester; his brother and best friend, James A. McClune and his wife Mary Ellen of Holden; a sister, Kathleen Burnett and her husband Lewis of Crossville, Tenn; three grandchildren he adored and found life’s enthusiasm with Nicolas, Mathew, & Dominic; Many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.   A sister, Mary O’Connor pre deceased him.

Bill was a member of Christ the King church.  A family man who dearly treasured his family and especially his grandchildren.  Bill always found the time to attend his grandchildren’s many activities, cheering, advising and showing his pride in his family.  He loved the beach, helping others, and found special joy as a teacher.

Friends and relatives are invited to calling hours, Wednesday, June 28th from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St.    His funeral will be celebrated Thursday, June 29th from the funeral home departing in procession at 10:00 am to Christ the King Church, Pleasant Street where Monsignor Thomas Sullivan will celebrate his funeral mass at 10:15 am.   Burial with military honors will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton.   In lieu of flowers memorial remembrances in his name can be made to the Boston Children’s Hospital Trust, 401 Park Drive, Suite 602, Boston Mass 02215.