Gloucester - On December 3, 2022, William J. Andrewes entered into his Eternal Life.

Born on August 27, 1929, in Malden, Massachusetts, the son of the late Henry E. Andrewes and Florence (Rowe) Andrewes. His family moved to the Cape Ann in the early 1930s. His childhood was spent on the water along with his brothers. At the age of 19 he built a home on Little River in Gloucester for his soon to be bride Phyllis. There they brought up three daughters and he lived there independently until his passing.

He retired from Coldwater Seafood, in Everett in the 1990s as assistant plant manager. Previously he and his brother Bob established Andrewes Bros. Contracting, building many fine homes on Cape Ann. The business was then taken over by his nephew Jack Andrewes. Bill also was employed for many years by Birds Eye.

Bill had a unique passion for life, realizing that every day is a gift. He was gracious and kind, a true gentleman. He adored his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and relished in all their accomplishments. He had a quick wit and could lighten up any situation. A lover of the outdoors and nature, an avid skier always open to new adventures.

He will be truly missed for his loving ways and compassion towards others and the light that he brought to their lives.

Bill was predeceased by his wife Phyllis whom he shared 67 years of marriage, infant daughter MaryElizabeth, brothers Henry Andrewes and Robert Andrewes sister in law Mary Andrewes, nephew Mark Andrewes and sister and brother in law Robert and Mary Thompson. Surviving him are his three daughters, Susan M Cain and husband Timothy, Nancy M. Mertens and significant other Brad Chisholm, Julie Andrewes-Brighi and significant other Tom Hill. grandchildren William Mertens, Andrew Scola and his wife Lily, Jamie Hurd and husband Jacob, Daniel Mertens and wife Janet, Michelle Cain and significant other Alex Frontiero, Matthew Cain and Christian and Lara Brighi, great-grandchildren Quinn and Tessa Scola and Henry and Oliver Hurd and Eli Mertens. Many nieces and nephews, many dear friends and neighbors including Larry Cleveland and Jim Rowley and his beloved cat Tiger.

Family and friends are welcome to celebrate a Mass of Christian Burial for William on Friday, December 9th at 11:00 a.m. at St. John The Baptist Catholic Church, 52, Main St., Essex, MA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the charity of one's choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Nichols Funeral Home, Wilmington, MA. To leave a message of condolence for the family please visit our website at www.nicholsfuneralhome.com