William H. Drisko

December 9, 1933 - April 30, 2025

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our dear father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, William H. Drisko, on April 30, 2025. He has now been reunited in the loving care of his Lord with his beloved wife of 53 years, Barbara.

Born on December 9, 1933, in South Portland, Maine, William was the second child of Chester Ernest Drisko and Ruth Jean Dempster. He grew up on Thompson Street in South Portland, alongside his older sister, Edith, who was born three years prior. William graduated from South Portland High School and began his working life assisting his father at the family's filling station.

Seeking adventure in his early years, William spent a couple of years as a pipe fitter in the Merchant Marines, traveling on oil tankers to distant lands, including Japan. Upon his return to South Portland, fate intervened across the street from the Morong residence. One day, while driving his striking new black Mercury with white walls and a white leather interior, he mustered the courage to ask Miss Barbara Morong for a date. Despite initially viewing him as the "bad boy across the street," she said "yes," marking the beginning of a lifelong love story.

William and Barbara were married on October 10, 1960. Demonstrating his commitment to their future, he sold his cherished Mercury to make a down payment on their first home on Elmwood Avenue in Scarborough. A year later, they purchased and lovingly renovated a house in South Portland, creating a nurturing home for their growing family.

Throughout his working years, William held various roles, including positions at The Portland Shipyard, part-time work with the South Portland Police, and several years in carpentry and construction, where he even contributed to the initial construction of the Maine Mall. He then embarked on a fulfilling career at New England Telephone, later known as Verizon, where he dedicated himself until his retirement in 1988.

In his retirement, William remained active and engaged, dedicating his time to carpentry projects and serving as a helpful handyman at the Cape Elizabeth Home. His life was a testament to his kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith, leaving a lasting impact on countless individuals. He had a special knack for crafting small tokens of his affection, spreading joy through his generous spirit. Above all, William cherished his family, investing his time and love in his eight grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren. Memorable family gatherings were a priority, including two occasions when he generously funded unforgettable Bermuda cruises for the entire family, creating cherished memories.

William is lovingly survived by his daughter, Kimberley Drisko O'Brion; his son, Kevin Drisko (David Pascale); his grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Benjamin O'Brion (Karlene Jost), and his children, Ollie and Clare; Hannah Avrill (Jeremy), and their children, Dezso, Caitlin, Evelinah, and Maria; Ruth Collett, and her children, Micah and MilaRose; Molly Vashon, and her children, Adeline and Wade; Emily Moore (Todd), and their children, Caeden and Aria; Abigail Farag (Cameron), and their son, Calvin; Rose Benke (Brandon); and Noah O'Brion.

He was predeceased by his parents, Chester Drisko and Ruth Jean Dempster; his sister, Edith Pacillo; and his beloved wife, Barbara Morong.