WILMINGTON, MA — William R. Iovanna, “Bill” USN Retired CW04, age 73, of Raymond, NH formerly of Wilmington, MA, passed away unexpectedly at home on January 18, 2019.
William was born in Woburn, MA, on January 8, 1946; he was raised and educated in Wilmington, MA and was a graduate of Wilmington High School.
Bill, enlisted in the United States Navy on July 9, 1963, during the Vietnam War and that’s where his 27-year career in the Navy began. Bill served overseas during the Vietnam War as well as several conflicts throughout the world over the years. Throughout his career, Bill, continued to learn and grow; he took many training classes and lots of schooling. Bill was knowledgeable in computer science and special communications which led him to a position in Naval Intelligence for several years. Bill also earned many commendations and awards throughout the years including the Joint Service Commendation, Navy Achievement Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Four Good Conduct Awards, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign, Two Overseas Service Ribbons and the Expert Pistol Shot Medal. Bill enjoyed his time traveling the world while in the Navy; he saw many places and met many wonderful people throughout the years. Bill felt privileged to work with so many great people that he considered his extended family. Bill retired in the early 1990’s following a stellar career and made his home in Raymond, NH.
Bill was known to be a huge sports fan; he loved following all the Boston sports, the Dallas Cowboys and he also enjoyed horse racing.
Bill was well read, and he could hold any conversation about the weather, currents events and most of all politics; he never back-down from a friendly debate.
Bill most of all enjoyed spending time with his family especially his grandchildren who he adored. He looked forward to his trips “back East” while in the Navy and following his retirement he loved to host his family at his home in New Hampshire.
Bill will be fondly remembered as a “great guy”; he was proud, honorable, gentle and kind. Bill would go out of his way to help his family, friends, neighbors and co-workers. Bill always spoke highly of his family; he loved them with all his heart and he will forever be missed by all.
William was the devoted father of Anthony Iovanna of Glendale, AZ, the late Marc Iovanna and Teressa Iovanna. Loving “Grampa” of Justin, Christopher, Hannah and Bradley. Cherished son of the late Capitola (Hovey) and Joseph McCabe, dear brother of Janis Hall & her husband Albert of Stoneham, Bonnie McElenehy & her husband Jerry of Tennessee, Sharon Caira & her husband Aldo of Wilmington and the late Charlene Brogna. William is also survived by his former wife and dear friend Allyson Barnes as well as many nieces and nephews.
Family and friends gathered at the Nichols Funeral Home, 187 Middlesex Ave. (Rte. 62), Wilmington, MA, on Monday, January 28th for Visitation from 11:00 a.m.-12:00 noon, immediately followed by a Funeral Service at 12:00 noon. Interment with Military Honors will follow in Wildwood Cemetery, Wilmington, MA.
In lieu of flowers, donations in William’s memory may be made to Homes for Our Troops, 6 Main St., Taunton, MA 02780.
(NOTE: The above obituary is from Nichols Funeral Home.)
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