William J. Breen

William J Breen, 97, a resident of Methuen, MA. passed away on Thursday June 22nd, 2023, surrounded by his loving family, after a short illness. Born in Boston, MA., he was raised by David and Katherine Kennedy of Dracut, MA. who he considered his loving parents. He attended the Collinsville school in Dracut. Upon graduation he enlisted in the Navy where he was a First Class Seaman serving as a gunner on the USS Bennington during World War II. Once home he earned his trade at the Roberts technical Trade school in autobody in 1949. Known as being one of the top in his trade, he worked at several local autobody shops including Fary’s in Salem NH. After retirement he spent many years working at Market Basket where he was well known by many. Throughout life, he remained an active member of Saint Monica Church as well as members of the Knights of Columbus of Methuen, Fourth Degree Knight and the order of the Alhambra-Caravan Lugo #113. During this time, he was one of the main organizers of many community activities. A man so full of life, he enjoyed skiing, fishing, gardening in his yard of 60 years, trips to the casino, traveling especially to Las Vegas and camping with family. Despite his love for adventure, he had no greater love than for his family. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. William is survived by his four children; Eileen and her husband Ronald Balfour, Beverly and her husband Vincent Luciano, William Breen, Jr., Laurie and her husband Raymond Roy, daughter-in-law Ratha Breen all of Methuen, as well as special family friends who, are like daughters; Diane Gordon and Lourdes Medina. He is also survived by 8 grandkids, 9 great grandkids with one on the way as well as sister-in-law Rita Guillette. He is predeceased by his wife Eileen of whom he was married to for 71 years, as well as his son David. Relatives and friends are invited to call on Tuesday, June 27th, 2023, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the John Breen Memorial Funeral Home, Inc., 122 Amesbury St., Lawrence, MA. A Funeral Service will be celebrated on Wednesday, June 28th, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. in the Funeral Home. Burial will follow in the Elmwood Cemetery in Methuen. Memorial Contributions may be made in William’s memory to the MSPCA, 400 Broadway, Methuen, MA 01844. mspca.org. To send an online condolence or for more information, please go to www.breenfuneralhome.com.

William J. Breen

June 1, 1926 - June 22, 2023