Irvin, William of Squantum, age 80 passed away peacefully on Monday March 2, 2009 at Marina Bay Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Bill was born and raised in Charlestown and resided in Squantum for the past 14 years. A Marine Corp Veteran of World War II, Bill had a long career in the labor movement. Bill not only left his mark on the labor community, he also left a smile on the faces of most people he came in contact with. His career with the United Steelworkers of America began in 1960 when he was elected President of Local #3746 at Ryerson Steel. He was appointed an International Staff Representative in 1977 and rose to the position of Sub- Area Director of District 1 covering 4 New England States. He retired in 1995. Bill wore many hats during his labor career and was always on the side of the working man. He was Vice President of the Massachusetts AFL- CIO and served on the Executive Board. In 1983 Bill was appointed, by Governor Michael Dukakis, to the Board of Directors of the M.B.T.A., a post he held until 1991. While a member of the Board of Directors he served as Chairman of the M.B.T.A. Retirement Board.
The beloved husband of Helen (Gallahue) Irvin and devoted and loving "Daddy" of Mackenzie Irvin of Squantum. He is also survived by his loving daughters Karen Ryan and Pamela Irvin of Melrose, his sons Dennis Irvin and his wife Ellen of Malden, Jeff and his wife Jill of Stoneham, William A. and his wife Kathy of Melrose and Edward M. and his wife Patricia of Wakefield. Brother of Joseph Irvin of Everett and the late John F. and Paul F. Irvin. Bill is also survived by 11 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the Life Celebration Service in Keohane Funeral Home, 785 Hancock St., QUINCY, Friday at 9:15 AM. Funeral Mass in Saint Agatha's Church, Milton at 10:30 AM.
Visiting hours Thursday 4- 8 PM. Burial in Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Bill may be made to the general scholarship fund at Fontbonne Academy,930 Brook Road, Milton, MA 02186.