Fall River – William "Bill" Botelho, age 77, passed away unexpectedly on March 16 ^th , 2023.  Born in Fall River, he was the son of the late Ernest V. and Irene (Travers) Botelho.

Bill was raised in Somerset and graduated from Somerset Highs School.  Prior to his retirement, he was a Civil Engineer for the Massachusetts Highway Department and served in the United States Army.  When his children were younger, they spent many afternoons at Fall River Country Club learning everything Bill could teach them not just about golf, but about life and what was important.  On weekends he would teach them about celebrating the small things; a morning walk with the dog, time at Horseneck Beach, the value of a long lunch, and even the lost art of chair dancing.

Bill's joys in life included fishing, especially at his spot in Westport, connecting with his grandson and granddaughter and playing card games, especially cribbage and pinochle.  He spent many weekends at the dog track, watching the races and placing bets with his friends.  That's one thing about Bill, he lived life his way and always made a friend where ever he went. Some of Bill's favorite places to see his friends and share a few laughs were the Elks Club, the American Legion, the Black Whale and especially Magonis. Bill was a wonderful son, brother, father, grandfather and friend and he will be incredibly missed.

Bill is survived by his two sons; David Botelho and his wife LeeAnne of Newport, RI; Robert Botelho and his wife Amanda of Richmond, VA; his sister; Sylvia Medeiros; his grandchildren; Brendan Botelho and Illeisha Lussiano; many nieces and nephews and so many great friends.

Besides his parents Bill was predeceased by his two brothers; Ernest V. Botelho Jr., and John Botelho.

Visitation for Bill will be on Friday, March 24 ^th from 2:00 – 5:00 P.M. with a service to follow at 5:00 P.M. at the Manuel Rogers Funeral Home, 1521 N. Main St., Fall River.  To share a memory or offer a condolence please visit www.rogersfuneral.com