WATERVILLE – William L. Alley, 70, passed away on the afternoon of Dec. 12, 2012 at his residence, after an eight-year struggle with leukemia. He was born July 13, 1942, in Bar Harbor, the son of Thelma (Partridge) and Howard Owen Alley.

Bill was a graduate of Bar Harbor High School, class of 1960 and received a BA degree from Maine Maritime Academy, Castine. He began his career as a marine officer for Lykes Shipping Company, New Orleans, from 1964 until the early 1970’s. From the 1970’s to 1995, Bill was an engineer employed by paper mills and utility plants. Before his retirement, he was employed for 10 years at Colby College’s Physical Plant. An avid gardener during his retirement, Bill grew and hybridized daylilies. His garden included more than 300 registered lily varieties. He found buying from national growers and selling to local gardeners and collectors most rewarding and resulted in many enriching friendships.

Bill was predeceased by his parents and six siblings. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Louise (Hunter) Alley of Waterville; his sister, Nancy Farrenkopf of Ellsworth; and by several nieces and nephews. A special thanks for all the support given, especially the compassionate folks who came into our lives lately through Hospice and Assistance Plus!

We will celebrate Bill’s life 1 p.m. Dec. 22 with a service at the Universalist Unitarian Church, 69 Silver St., Waterville, with Rev. Meg Anzalone officiating, after which a party will be held in Bill’s honor at Lori Dumont’s Parsonage House, 276 Dunham Road, Vassalboro. All are welcome! In lieu of flowers, please contribute to the charity of your choice in Bill’s name. One of his friends is donating platelets to a Blood Bank because he used a lot of them.

Arrangements are with Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville. On-line condolences may be expressed at www.gallantfh.com.

Published in BDN Maine on December 18, 2012