William “Bill” Michaud Jr., 81, of Noank, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, passed away peacefully Sept. 25, 2026. Born July 17, 1945, in West Orange, N.J., Bill was the son of William Sr. and Genevieve Lowry Michaud.

A lifelong learner, Bill enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1963, even before he graduated high school. He proudly served his country for 30 years, culminating in his military career with the rank of commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve.

Bill graduated from Maine Maritime Academy in 1968, with a Bachelor of Science degree and a commission in the U.S. Navy Reserve. He later earned an M.B.A. from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1988. His professional life spanned more than five decades during which he made pioneering contributions to global shipbuilding and advanced power industries. An expert in magnetic and fluid film bearing technologies, Bill held multiple patents in magnetic bearing design, leaving an indelible mark on the field. Later in his career, he shared his expertise as an independent management consultant, guiding naval shipbuilding and energy programs with strategic planning and development ideas.

Bill’s personal life was a tapestry woven with love, joy, and profound connections. Bill married the love of his life, Joyce, in August 1969. Together they celebrated 57 wonderful years of marriage, a partnership marked by mutual respect and deep affection. They nurtured a close-knit family, raising their children, daughter Meredith Michaud Hargus and son Michael Michaud; they survive him, along with their spouses, Matthew Hargus and Elizabeth Giuggio.

As a grandfather, Bill cherished his grandchildren, Hannah and Nolan Hargus, showering them with love and wisdom. He is also survived by his sisters, Francis Foucault and her husband David, Shirley Pickering and her husband James; brother Richard Michaud and his wife Rachel; and his “West Coast son,” Andy Sugimoto; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A devout Catholic, Bill possessed a strong faith and love of God. His greatest joy was spending time at home with his family and friends. Known as a cook par excellence, Bill loved to prepare gourmet meals whenever he could.

To those who knew him, Bill was a special person. He was caring, thoughtful, organized and the quintessential engineer, but above all he was a devoted family man. His love and support were boundless, and his gentle spirit was best captured in his frequent farewell wish for “Peace” to all he loved.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Emily Gilmore and the neuroscience team at Yale New Haven Hospital for their exceptional care and compassion.

Bill’s life was a beacon of kindness and dedication. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

His family will receive relatives and friends from 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 6, at Byles Groton Memorial Home, 310 Thames Street, Groton. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 7, at Saint Mary Mother of the Redeemer Church, Groton Long Point Road, Groton. Burial with military honors will follow at St. Patrick Cemetery in Uncasville.