William Joseph Love, known as “Bill” to his friends, passed away at his home Friday, June 30, 2017, surrounded by his beloved wife of nearly 66 years, Margaret (Peggy) Love; and daughters, Denise Alexander and Lois Donohoe (Michael).
His death closed the chapter on 88 years of a remarkable life and the loss to those who loved him of “the best man” they ever knew. Bill was born March 27, 1929, in Collingdale, Pa.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Matilda Love; siblings, Joseph, Catherine (Emery), Marie (Shallcross) and James Love.
Early in life “Billy,” as he was known to friends and siblings, distinguished himself as a skilled athlete. At Collingdale High School, he was named captain of the basketball team and co-captain of the baseball team. Not long after graduating, he asked Peggy Byrne to a church dance, initiating a lifelong love and devoted partnership. As a young man, he served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany for two years. Upon returning home, Bill worked at Abbott’s Dairies in Philadelphia while he put himself through night school at Pennsylvania Military Academy, now Widener University.
Bill then embarked on a 34-year career with the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC), the federal agency tasked with regulating the interstate transport of railroads and motor carriers. Starting as a regional investigator in Atlanta and later in Richmond, Bill ultimately achieved the title of associate director of the Commission’s Consumer Assistance and Enforcement Office at the ICC’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. In that role, Bill oversaw the agency’s handling of all investigations and prosecutions involving violations of the Interstate Commerce Act.
Although he retired in the government’s Senior Executive Service, he most enjoyed the early days working as an investigator. In retirement, Bill and Peggy moved to Ford’s Colony in Williamsburg. Bill embraced his new community, especially enjoying serving on his home association board and attending tailgates and Tribe football games at The College of William & Mary. And it goes without saying that his lifelong dedication to family never ebbed. He became an uncredited research assistant to seven grandchildren, helping them navigate book reports and projects, attending their soccer games, and as they grew up, advising them on career moves.
Unexpectedly and rapidly, a recent diagnosis of lymphoma took him from his family. But, through a difficult few weeks, Bill never lost his lovingness, his great sense of humor, his ready smile, or the sparkle in his blue eyes. In the days before his passing, his seven grandchildren and their spouses, two of his four great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews came to visit. Filling a crowded hospital room, it was remarked, “Mr. Love is very loved.” It was an understatement about the man who gave so much to so many. He will always be remembered with great love by his wife, Peggy; his daughters and son-in-law; his grandchildren and their spouses; and his great-grandchildren.
A funeral Mass for William J. Love will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Thursday, July 6, at Saint Bede Catholic Church, with visitation starting at 10 a.m.
Share online condolences with the family at nelsencares.com.
