Marblehead

William R. "Bill" Doane, age 69, husband of Marilyn (Shuksteris) Doane for 46 years, died Thursday evening in Salem Hospital.


A lifelong resident of Marblehead, he was born in Marblehead the son of the late Frank L. "Gov" and Helen L.(Dixey) Doane and was educated in Marblehead schools. While a student at Marblehead High School, Bill began working with his father as a carpenter when he was 15 years old.


Following his graduation, he began working full time with his father and operated the family carpentry business for over 40 years, until he was appointed as a Building Inspector for the Town of Marblehead.


Bill was a member of the North Shore Old Car Club and had campaigned in the Spirit of '76 Dragster Team for many years. Dedicated to his family and friends, he was often found at Riverhead Beach having coffee, reading the paper, and running his dogs.


In addition to his wife, Bill is survived by three children Cynthia Shea, Richard Doane and his wife Judy, and Kenneth Doane and his girlfriend Elaine Robinson all of Marblehead; four grandchildren Jessica Shea and her fiance Edgar S. Doliber III of Lynn, Robert and Rebecca Shea and Brian A. Doane all of Marblehead; many nieces, nephews and cousins and his faithful companion "Mollie".


He also had two step-brothers Donald and Charles Doane.


A celebration of his life will be held on Sunday March 29, 2009 from 12:00 noon to 4:00PM at the Gerry 5, V.F.A. 210 Beacon St. Marblehead. Those who wish may make a memorial contribution to the Friends of Marblehead's Abandoned Animals (FOMAA), 44 Village St. Marblehead, MA 01945. For online guest book or additional information please call 978-744-0497 or visit www.MurphyFuneralHome.com.