William A. Belanger

MILLBURY - William A “Sonny” Belanger, recently passed away in the loving company of his daughters Cathleen Bourbeau, Christine Silva, and Lauren Fletcher, and immediate family members on September 6, 2021.  He is survived by his grandchildren Joshua, Sarah, Brad, Melissa, Jessica, Jonathan, Jackie, Meghan, and Meredith; great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his wife Claire (O’Rourke); parents William A. and Mary Emma (Dillaire) Belanger; son William D. Belanger; daughter Donna Tupa; brother Robert Paul Belanger; and sister Joan Cayer.

Bill was a Worcester native attending St Peter’s H.S., graduating from Worcester State College (now University) with a B.S., Ed.M. and accorded the Ella M. Whitney graduation award.  Prior to that he served in the U.S. Navy and taught in the Worcester Public School System, while earning an M.N.S. from Worcester Polytechnic Institute.  Bill was an accomplished carpenter and cabinetmaker.

Bill joined the faculty at Worcester State College in 1967 and during his tenure became an Associate Professor of Natural and Earth Science; Chairman of the Science Departments; grant administrator for in-service science teachers, and held many leadership positions on Campus.

Professor Emeritus Belanger leaves behind countless students who remember him with great fondness. He has been heralded as a favorite instructor particularly in his Intro to Physical Science; Science and Society; and special topical classes in natural science and physics.  His students commented on their academic experiences as challenging, mind-opening, thoughtful, and stimulating. His sense of humor contributed to helping students overcome the anxiety of studying physics.  His motto was “physics is fun!” 

Prof. Belanger was the definitive academic role-model of gentleman and scholar. He retired from University service in 2016.

Bill was a multi-faceted talented man who was a wonderful provider and adored by his family. His passing will leave a void which will never be filled.

Funeral Services are private and in the care of Rice Funeral Home, 300 Park Ave, Worcester.  Donations in Bill’s memory can be made to honor the caregivers at: Hospice of Western & Central Massachusetts 1325 Springfield Street, Suite12, Feeding Hills, MA 01030.