William Anthony Calcidise

William A. “Bill” Calcidise, 81, of Springfield, peacefully passed away early Saturday morning, November 11, 2023, at the Life Care Center of Wilbraham. He was born in Springfield, the son of the late Anthony J. and Carmela (Rossi) Calcidise. He is predeceased by his brother-in-laws, Jimmy and Larry O’Keefe and his great nephew Jacob O’Keefe.

He was a graduate of West Springfield High School Class of 1960. He enlisted in the United States Army where he served with the 164th Military Police Unit in Germany during the Vietnam War until receiving his honorable discharge from active duty in September of 1966. After returning home to civilian life, he attended STCC. Bill retired as a foreman after 32 years with the former Penn Central, Conrail and more recently CSX Railroad Company. He was a member of the East Longmeadow American Legion Post 293, as well as a former member of the Springfield Elks Lodge #61 and the East Longmeadow Senior Center.

As a young man, Bill enjoyed coaching and cheering on his son and daughter’s various sports activities. He thoroughly enjoyed being a grandfather to his grandsons Billy and Jack and cooking with them, especially making his famous “breakfast potatoes” and homemade pizza from scratch. And the opportunity to watch both participate in all their school and sports activities. He also enjoyed Cape Cod vacations with his wife Janice and their family. Some of his favorite pastimes included fishing with his grandsons, metal detecting, and following the Red Sox and Patriots.

He is survived by his best friend and devoted wife of 56- years, Janice (O’Keefe) Calcidise and his two loving children, Anthony W. Calcidise and his wife Jessica of East Longmeadow, and Elena L. Calcidise of Springfield; a sister, Sandra Blanchard and her husband John of Feeding Hills; two grandsons, William A. ”Billy” Calcidise II and Jack B. Calcidise; as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. He is also survived by Pamela O’Keefe, AnnMarie O’Keefe and Billy and June O’Keefe. Bill also leaves his favorite fourlegged companion, Labrador retriever, Onyx. His infectious laugh and sense of humor will be missed by all. His family would like to extend a special thank you to Pamela and Kellie O’Keefe for their supreme kindness and compassion during his illness.

Relatives and friends are welcome to visit on Monday, November 20th from 9:15 – 11:15 AM at the Byron Keenan Funeral Home & Cremation Tribute Center, 1858 Allen Street, Springfield followed by a Liturgy of Christian Burial celebrated at 12 noon at St. Michael’s Church, 128 Maple Street, in East Longmeadow. Committal prayers and Military Honors will take place on Tuesday, November 21st at 2:00 PM at the Massachusetts Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, 1390 Main Street in Agawam.

Contributions in Bill’s name may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association or the Shriner’s Hospital for Children.