William J. Hession

He is survived by his beloved wife, Dee, of 55 years; his son David and his wife Awa; his daughter Loren and her husband Mark; his daughter Lanell and her husband Joe; and his many loving grandkids. He is predeceased by his son Michael who surely opened the gates of heaven for him.

He was a proud and hardworking family man, who enjoyed golfing, especially at Chippanee, traveling, and a good party with family and countless friends. He grew up with his four siblings, Jack, Mary, Tom, and Helen; and he started his career driving a fruit truck while too young to have a license and where he learned to speak French as it was the only language his boss knew.

After serving in the Army, he put himself through college by working nights. He became a high school teacher, a job he loved, but after his 4th child, all of whom were under 4 years old, he borrowed a small sum of money from his father-in-law, who loved and believed in him, to help create an aerospace manufacturing company, Precision Speed Manufacturing, of which he was President and CEO when he retired. His employees became his second family.

His home in Southington was often referred to as "Grand Central" with people coming in and out, and staying when needed, all of whom he welcomed with open arms. Of his many fine traits, he was legendary for his generosity and his intelligence, quick wit, charm, humor, and nick-naming ability delivered with an unforgettable grin and twinkle in his eye! He had many names, Willie, Peso Bill, and his favorite...PAPA. He lived life to the fullest and believed that life was too short to ever pass up a good TARTUFO! He is deeply missed, to a depth that cannot adequately be conveyed with words.

The family will hold a fitting celebration of his legendary life when the pandemic will safely allow. In the meantime and in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his honor to the Michael Hession Scholarship Fund (Sent attn: First Bristol Federal Union, 25 North St., Bristol, CT 06010). For online condolences please visit, www.dellavecchiasouthington.com