SALEM, Conn. — William “Bill” Albert Bailey, 88, of Salem, Conn. and North Lovell passed away at his Connecticut home on Wednesday, March 14, 2018 after a prolonged illness.

Bill was born in Boston on July 13, 1929, the oldest son of Albert and Elizabeth (Allison) Bailey. He grew up in Worcester, Mass., attended Colby College, and graduated from Clark University. While too young to enlist during World War II, directly after the war he came of age and volunteered in the Army. Upon returning home from service in Italy, he began a career in the insurance industry, working first for Mass Mutual and later at Kemper Insurance.

Bill spent his summers at the north end of Kezar Lake on Rattlesnake Island. His grandfather, Will Allison, was one of the original five campers to visit the area in 1889. In 1900, the group purchased Rattlesnake Island, and the property remains in the families’ hands.

Bill was predeceased by his daughter, Martha.

He is survived by his wife Alfreda Shapere; five children, Liz, David, Allison, Bill and Elizabeth; 10 grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.

A service in his memory will be held on Aug. 4 at the North Lovell Cemetery.