William L. Emma

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of William (Bill) Emma, who left us peacefully on August 14th, surrounded by his children, after a long and courageous battle with COPD.

Bill was born in Leominster on March 13, 1951. The son of Anita and Liborio Emma. He grew up in Fitchburg and graduated from Fitchburg High School, Class of 1969. He married Charlene Morin in 1972. Bill worked at Polysar and also as a painter for many years. He has spent the last several years living in Gardner, MA.

Family was everything to Bill. His children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the loves of his life - his pride and joy! He never missed attending his children and grandchildren’s numerous games and dance recitals. He was the biggest cheerleader in the crowd. When not rooting for them, he was rooting just as passionately and vigorously for his lifelong favorite team, the New York Yankees. He loved them Yankees.

He was always the life of any family gathering. He could make anyone laugh and smile in any situation. If he wasn't telling a joke or a crazy story, he could be found at the snack table - he loved his groceries. An avid athlete, he excelled in local adult basketball and softball leagues. He had a razor-sharp wit which fueled his effervescent and endless humor. He was unbelievably quick at math and a great Trivial Pursuit partner (especially History). Anyone watching Jeopardy with him was astonished at how quick and smart he was. We like to imagine him reunited with Lebo at ‘Heavenly Downs’, getting ready for post time. Bill will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Easy breathing and Godspeed, my Father, Brother, Uncle and Pepe.

Bill is survived by his former wife, Charlene Morin Bourque (Rheal); his children, Justin Emma (Amy), and Celina Leger; his grandchildren, Josh Emma (Chelsea), Lexis Emma, Xavian Dean, and Emma Leger; and his great-grandchildren Kane and Gia Emma. He also leaves behind his siblings: Steve Emma (Debra), Bonnie Picone (John), Denise Russian (Eric), Suzanne Shields, Paul Emma; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, Anita Descoteaux and Liborio Emma; his brother, Thomas Emma; and his great-granddaughter, Kaia Emma.

In accordance with Bill's wishes, there will be no funeral services and burial will be private.

To view memories and upload photos of William please visit his memorial page https://my.gather.app/remember/william-emma .