Sturbridge : William J. 'Bill' Julian, 78, of Park Circle, formerly of Southbridge, passed away on Friday, Nov. 29th, in the St. Francis Rehab and Nursing Center, Worcester, after a long illness.

He leaves his beloved wife of 54 years, Deborah A. (Sullivan) Julian; his son, Neil J. Julian and his wife Kelly of Barre, VT; his three brothers, Robert Julian and his husband Rui Gomes of Portugal, Michael Julian and his wife Trish of North Carolina and Kenneth Julian and his wife Tammy of North Carolina; his sister, Susan Julian and her wife Ellen Allen of Pinch, WV; his two grandchildren, Trent Julian of Barre, VT and Taylor Cordeiro and her husband Michael  of Manchester, NH; and nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his sister, Gail Splaine Belanger.  Bill was born in Southbridge the son of the late Clarence 'Curley' and Gabrielle (Plouffe) Julian.  He was a 1964 graduate of the former Cole Trade High School in Southbridge.  He was a proud Vietnam War Veteran, serving in the US Army as member of the 82nd Airborne Division.

Bill was a metal fabricator and welder at Southbridge Sheet Metal for over 30 years, retiring many years ago.  He was also a dedicated volunteer firefighter with the Southbridge Fire Department, retiring as Lieutenant.

Bill enjoyed playing softball and bowling and was a member of local teams and leagues.  He  served on committees for the Boy Scout Troop 160 in Southbridge.

Bill was an avid snow skier and enjoyed years of Skiing in New England and in Utah with his son.  He was also an avid hiker and cyclist. He also enjoyed going to the shooting range.

The family would like to thank the staff at the VA Hospital in West Roxbury, the Overlook in Charlton and St. Francis Rehab in Worcester for the care and compassion that was given to Bill.

Calling hours for Bill will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 10th, from 4:00 to 6:00pm in the Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge, with a funeral service to follow at 6:00pm.  Burial will be at a later date.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org or to the Disabled American Veterans at www.dav.org