William L. Gove

William Lionel Gove, affectionately known as "Billy" and "the old man," passed away on December 14, 2024, at the age of eighty-six. Born on May 27, 1938, in Malden, Massachusetts, Bill spent his final years in Ruskin, Florida, cultivating a life filled with adventure and love. William proudly served in the Navy, working on ship engines, a testament to his skills as a gifted diesel mechanic. After his service, he established Andover Truck Maintenance, a successful business he owned and operated until his retirement. A natural leader in all aspects of his life, Bill's work ethic and loyalty to his family were matched only by his unwavering pride as an American veteran. He was a Master Mason in Woburn MA, a former member of the Elks in Tewksbury MA, the Moose Lodge, and the Gold Wing Riders Association. Bill rode his motorcycle annually in the Ride for Kids, raising money for the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation. A lover of the great outdoors, Bill found joy riding his Honda Gold Wing, boating, and racing cars and snowmobiles. He cherished his family deeply, treasuring his wife, Sonja Gove, his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Family gatherings brought him immense happiness, whether he was sharing a cold beer, recounting tales of sinking a boat, reminiscing about trips to Peggy’s Coral, or telling endless life stories. Bill truly knew a little about everything but not everything about one thing. He was gifted at conversing with anyone, and if you were his close friend, it was for life. While not always outwardly expressive, he cared deeply, saving everything sentimental. He was an avid reader, spending mornings engrossed in books. William’s love of music brought timeless melodies to his home, especially classic country artists like Ray Price, Patsy Cline, Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, Charley Pride, Loretta Lynn, and Conway Twitty. William’s family includes his former wife, Carol Gove (deceased), and his four children: Patricia Hills, William Gove, Laurie Marshall, and Edward Gove. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Sonja Gove, who he shared 7 stepchildren with, George Rayner (deceased), Jewel Rayner, Russell Rayner, Jacqueline O’Connell (deceased), Samuel Rayner (deceased), Robert Rayner, and Lillian (Lee) Carpenter. He has 24 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents William Gove, Dorothy Gove, sisters Inez Prior and Barbara Gove. He is survived by his devoted sister, Donna Matthews, who lived across the street in Ruskin and lovingly cared for him until the end. In his leisure time, Bill enjoyed classic television shows, particularly In the Heat of the Night, Tool Time, Last Man Standing, How Things Are Made, and NASCAR racing. His favorite place in the world was his home on the water in Florida, looking out at the Manatee River. There, he created countless memories with his beloved Sonja, family, and friends. Bill’s heart was as big as his love for his family. They will forever remember his favorite saying, “Whatever,” along with his stories, cooking, and music. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and adventure as well as a void that can never be replaced.

William L. Gove

May 27, 1938 - December 14, 2024

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William L. Gove

May 27, 1938 - December 14, 2024

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