Donald S. (Skip) Willy, 79, passed away Friday, December 13, 2013 after a long illness. He was surrounded by family in the Hingham home he designed and built.
Prior to his retirement, Mr. Willy was President/Owner of Submarine Research Laboratories. He invented a silencer for marine engines that was adopted by the US Navy.
Born in Quincy, Mr. Willy graduated from North Quincy High School and attended MIT. He was the son of the late Sarah (Burns) and Northcote Willy. He was the brother of the late Grace Reed of Wellesley and Cliff Willy of Weymouth. Mr. Willy also served in the USAF.
Mr. Willy leaves his wife Linda (Wainionpaa), his daughter Nancy Willy Erickson of Lincoln, ME, and his son Brian (Chip) Willy and his wife Silviya, of Hingham and grand-daughters Haleigh and Kendall Erickson USN. He is also survived by nephews, nieces and their families.
Mr. Willy was dedicated to fostering injured small wildlife. He also managed many youth hockey trips abroad. His children remember him first and foremost Dad, recalling family trips sailing, skiing, camping, hiking and summers on Martha’s Vineyard. He often could be found undertaking esoteric home projects, or toiling away on anything that floats.
A Memorial celebration will be held in January for family and friends. Please check the Donald S. Willy Memorial page on Facebook for a memorial schedule. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the New England Wildlife Center (newildlife.org), 500 Columbia Rd, S, Weymouth, MA 02190.