William John (Billy) Mailloux, the youngest of six children born to Alvin and Coyita Mailloux, passed away Sept. 2, 2017, after a prolonged illness.
A funeral Mass was celebrated Sept. 7, 2017, at St Joseph Catholic Church in Bradley. Fr. Anthony Nugent was the celebrant. Cremation rites were accorded.
For years the Mailloux's have held a prominent position in the local community, well-known and respected by so many people; as Billy grew up he easily became part of this proud tradition. We knew big things were to come when he was named “Crew Cut Champion” at 10 weeks of age! There were three central themes in his life: dedication to his craft as a journeyman painter, his love and mastery of all things mechanical that went fast (especially hot rods), and a sincere and abiding enjoyment of and respect for everyone he met.
When the Air Force wouldn't let him pursue a career in jet engine aircraft technology he promptly resumed a career in his father's footsteps. After an apprenticeship in local 467 Painter's Union, he spent the next thirty seven years painting anything and everything including many well-known buildings and structures throughout the area. First alongside his father Alvin, then many years on his own, the Mailloux family has literally "painted the town".
There isn't any engine ever made that couldn't be made better, and most importantly, made to go faster. Billy knew that and spent a lifetime proving it. Audaciously enough, he launched this part of his career at the age of three, by “flying” his tricycle down a flight of stairs and crash-landing it at the bottom. His injuries from this "adventure" didn't slow down his quest to be the best. His magic touch left his mark on Go-Karts, Hot Rods, stock cars, motorcycles and even included a motorized barstool. Billy was well-known in the Bracket Racing Circuit; he leaves behind many gear-head friends and aficionados.
For all his accomplishments, the one that meant the most to him, and to those who know him, is his incredible legion of good friends. By nature, quietly thoughtful and considerate, in his low-key way he was a consummate gentle man. Everyone who ever met him was extended an opportunity to make a true friend for life.
He is pre-deceased by his mother Coyita (Mimi) and sister Madonna. He is survived by his father, Alvin (Papa), and leaves brothers, Danny and Allen, and sisters, Rita and Beverly, as well as his Life's-Love Kimberly and their children Jessica and Nick. Also he leaves behind enough extended family to fill an auditorium and enough friends to fill a stadium.
His biggest concern on leaving us was not about his welfare, but about the fact he won't get to visit us anymore. He expressed doubts that he lived a "good enough life". Of course we know better. For those of us who remain and miss him dearly, our biggest concern is living up to the high standard he set by his example. Billy, it's time to visit with Mimi and Madonna and take a victory lap for all of us.
