William "Willie" Kingman Hamblin

William “Willie” Kingman Hamblin, 87, of Worcester, passed away on Monday, September 24, 2018, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by loving family.  He was predeceased by his loving wife of forty-three years, Kathleen C. (Kane) Hamblin, in January 2010.

Willie is survived by three sons, Michael K. Hamblin, with whom he lived, Kenneth Hamblin of California, and Thomas D. Crosbie of North Brookfield; two daughters, Linda Hamblin of California, and Judy Johns and her husband Roger of Pleasant View, UT; three brothers, Donald Hamblin of FL, Vincent Hamblin of Nevada, and David Hamblin of Kentucky; Seven sisters, Evelyn Hopkins of OH, Dorothy Howard of Ohio, Ruth Flynn of Worcester, Charlene Nelson of Worcester, Vivienne Jenson of California, Marie Feree of Charlton, and Linda Mullikin of Missouri; ten grandchildren, many great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by a grandson, Michael Calvin Lindstrom Hamblin, a daughter in law, Dianne Crosbie, and a brother, Robert Hamblin.   Willie was born in Worcester, son of the late, Henry K. and Florence A. (Clark) Hamblin, and has called the city home all his life.  He served his nation proudly as a Ranger in the United States Army, during the Korean Conflict.

Willie worked as a painter for over forty years with The Painters Union, Local 48, before retiring.  He was an animal lover his entire life and enjoyed the relationships he had with his pets, who were a big part of his family; and was proud to share his “Dr. Doolittle” story of being able to befriend a chipmunk in his yard, and have it eat out of his hand.  He loved camping and anything outdoors.  He was a master at growing tomato plants and using the fruits of his labor to make homemade tomato sauce.  He loved Friday afternoons at Breen’s Café, cheering on the Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics, and Bruins; and discussing politics, as he had an opinion to share about it all.

Calling Hours will be held on Thursday, September 27, from 4 pm to 7 p.m. in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester.  His Funeral Service will be on Friday, September 28 at 11 am, in the funeral home.  Interment with Military Honors, will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton.