William “Bill” Holyoke passed away on December 23, 2025. As Bill himself once wrote, “On December 23, 2025, another angel went to heaven—now do you believe that?”

Bill was born the night before Christmas in 1946. He served 6 years with the Maine Army National Guard from 1965 to 1971. Bill had a lifelong love of working with wood and found great joy in making things for family and friends. Over the years, he built many houses and especially enjoyed cabinet making, a skill he learned before beginning his career with the Maine Central Railroad. Bill worked for the Maine Central Railroad for more than 37 years, retiring as an engineer, a job he truly enjoyed.

He was a devoted member of the Masons being a member of the Ralph Pollard Lodge #217, Orrington for over 50 years and Scottish Rite, Bangor. In 1986, Bill joined the Anah Shrine, first as a member of the Drum and Bugle Corps and later as part of the Wheelers unit, which he captained for two years. He was also a life member of the Bangor/Brewer Shrine Club. One of Bill’s greatest joys was traveling throughout the state and driving the miniature 18-wheelers in parades.

He is survived by his wife of 19 years, Louise Holyoke; his brother, Ralph Holyoke and his wife,  Peggy; his sons, Alan and Barry; and his eight stepchildren, Shelby, Scott, Christy, Greg, Melissa, Melanie, Seth, and Toby; several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Bill was predeceased by his parents, Louise and Roger; two sisters, Grace and Carolyn and their spouses; a brother, Vernon and his spouse.

Family and friends may visit 1 – 3 PM Monday, January 19, 2025 at Kiley & Foley Funeral Service, 69 State St., Brewer where a service to honor his life will be held at 3 PM as the visitation concludes. Burial will be at Pine Hill Cemetery, Orrington in the spring. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Shriners Children’s New England at shrinerschildrens.org.