Obituaries

William Shallcross, Sr.

November 25, 1947 - December 6, 2019

Burial Date December 13, 2019

NEW LONDON – William Shallcross, Sr., better known as “Fats”, 72, of New London passed away peacefully and pain free Thursday night, December 6, 2019 at Lawrence and Memorial Hospital. He was born on November 25, 1947 and is pre-deceased by his parents George T. Shallcross and Marie Mauro Shallcross, and his eldest brother George Jr. Shallcross. William Shallcross, Sr. was born and raised in New London. He loved working at the Lighthouse Inn. He retired from Local 24 Connecticut Carpenter’s and Millright union. He was the owner and operator of B&S Cycle originally located on Willetts Avenue in New London and in 1997 he expanded his business to Montville. Bill, “Fats” started B&S cycle in the early 70’s. B&S cycle was named for Bill & Son. It was located on the corner of Willets Ave and Shaw St.  As time went on it became a legendary hangout spot where “Fats” was always known for sitting on his infamous blue bench.  He and his cronies would gather. In 1974 Donald Pittsley and “Fats” became an advocate for a “No Helmet Law”.  Six months later Pittsley passed away and became instrumental in a right to decide law.  For 36 years “Fats”  continued to be an advocate for this legislation.  He organized and promoted a motorcycle run every year to ensure our freedom of choice.  This run is well known as Pappy’s Run.

He is survived by his two children, William Shallcross, Jr. and Rachael Shallcross Novak, his Fiance Dee Kneeland, his sister, Mary Rathbun and her husband Ernest of Westerly, RI, his four beautiful granddaughters, Olivia Marie, Julia Catherine, Sophia Rae and Mia Katherine who were the loves of his life.  He is also survived by his Godmother Aunt Carmella Mauro Savona, many nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends he considered “brothers”.  He is also survived by his Former wife Gloria Keene Shallcross and Dee’s Son Skip Kneeland. Calling hours are Thursday, December 12, 2019 from 4-7pm at the Impellitteri-Malia Funeral Home, 84 Montauk Avenue.  The funeral will be Friday, December 13, 2019 at the funeral home at 11am. The burial will be private. Donations may be made to The Crohns & Colitis Foundation.org or The Terri Brodeur Breast Cancer Foundation.