William P. Flaherty

William P. Flaherty of Scarborough passed away April 12 at his residence at Piper Shores. Mr. Flaherty was born in Portland, ME, the son of Daniel H. and Marie Whalen Flaherty. He attended Portland schools and was graduated from Cheverus High School in 1939. Bill was also a graduate of Shawâ€™s Business College in Portland. He was employed in the offices of Maine Central Railroad and later at the Charleston Navy Yard in MA and also the New England Tel & Tel Co. During World War II Bill served in the Army Air Force and was stationed in Greensborough, NC, Denver, CO, Riverside, CA and Hays, KS. While in Hays, he married the love of his life, the former Georgette LeBel. After his discharge from the service Bill worked in the Electrical Dept. of the S.D. Warren Co. for 41 years. He was a member of the 40-year Club and retired in 1988. After retirement Bill and his wife spent many winters in Florida and traveled throughout the United States and Canada, Bermuda, Freeport, and Nassau. Included were several cruises. He particularly enjoyed the extended vacation they took motoring from Portland, ME to San Diego, CA, covering many points of interest along Route 66 and environs. For many years their winter residence was in Sun City Center, FL and their summers were spent at their cottage in Prouts Neck. He was particularly fond of this area as he had been a caddy at the Prouts Neck Country Club in his youth. Billâ€™s interests were varied, but sports remained prominent. He was most easily recognized by his acquaintances as an extremely avid golfer. If his ability had matched his love for the game, heâ€™d have been on the PGA tour. He was a loyal Red Sox and Patriots fan and also enjoyed playing bridge in Sun City Center, Westbrook, and Piper Shores. Bill was a charter member of the Hibernians in Sun City Center and was also a member of Stephen W. Manchester American Legion Post #62, Westbrook Senior Citizens, and the Irish-American Club in Portland. Mr. Flaherty was predeceased by his brother Daniel Flaherty of Woburn, MA. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Georgette, and his son Bruce Flaherty of Augusta, ME He is also survived by a nephew, William Flaherty of Woburn and two nieces, Marie Flaherty of Woburn and Louise McRae of Tewksbury, MA. At his request private funeral arrangements are being made by Blais & Hay Funeral Home in Westbrook, ME with interment in St. Hyacinth Cemetery. If desired, donations may be sent to St. Jude Childrenâ€™s Research Hospital or to the charity of your choice.