William J. Ronan, at 87
William J. Ronan died peacefully Thursday, Dec. 27, at the Alliance Healthcare at Braintree, surrounded by his loving family. He was 87.
Mr. Ronan was raised in Roxbury and was a graduate of Boston English High School. He had lived in Hull for more than 20 years and previously lived in Walpole.
Mr. Ronan was employed as a sales representative for the former Boston Edison Co. in Boston for more than 40 years. 
He proudly served his country in the Army National Guard of Massachusetts. He enlisted in the 101st Infantry Battalion on Nov. 25, 1947. Over the years, he served in various command and staff positions, including command of the 101st Infantry Battalion, “The Fighting Irish,” and the 181st Infantry Battalion, one of the four oldest organizations in the U.S. Army. Upon his retirement after 36 years of service, he was placed on the state retired list with the honorary rank of colonel. 
Mr. Ronan and his wife, Cathy, enjoyed travelling and dancing. They spent many winters together in Naples, Fla., where they also enjoyed golfing, playing tennis, and living life to the fullest. 
The beloved husband for 24 years of Catherine A. (O’Neil) Ronan, as well as the late Margaret (Fraser) Ronan, Mr. Ronan was the devoted father of Stephen Ronan and his wife, Janet, of Walpole; Genevieve Schechter and her husband, Alan, of New York; Gregory Ronan of Walpole; James Ronan of Franklin; and Paula Simone and her husband, Christopher, of Attleboro. He is also survived by Cathy’s children: Marie Leonard of Weymouth; Robert Leonard and his wife, Diane, of Pembroke; Patti-Ann Jaehnig and her husband, James, of Quincy; and Thomas Leonard and his wife, Jennifer, of Seekonk. Mr. Ronan was loved and cherished by his many grandchildren and is also survived by many nieces and nephews. 
Services were held today (Thursday, Jan. 3). Mr. Ronan was interred with military honors at the Massachusetts National Cemetery at Bourne. 
Memorial donations may be made to the charity of one’s choice. For online condolences, visit www.thesweeneybrothers.com.