ATHOL- William J. Burns, 72, of Athol passed away Thursday, January 7, 2021 at Quabbin Valley Healthcare. William was born in Fitzwilliam, NH on May 10, 1948, son of the late William A. and Leone D. (Walker) Burns. He attended and graduated from Conant High School in Jaffrey, NH. He held various jobs throughout central Massachusetts. He served in the United States Army during Vietnam from 1969-1971. He had a love for all animals especially dogs. He also enjoyed kids and yard sales. He is survived by three sons, William Burns, Christopher Burns, and David Burns; two daughters, Daisy Lopez and Michelle Burns; three grandchildren; and his four sisters, Jeanne Norwood, Ginger Huff, Charlotte Dorais, and Sylvia Manning. He was predeceased by his wife, Terry (Moore) Burns. Services will be held at a later date at the discretion of the family. Burial will be at Massachusetts Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, Winchendon. Fiske-Murphy & Mack Funeral Home, 110 New Athol Road, Orange is assisting with arrangements.