William Arden Pond

MEREDITH --- William “Bill” Pond passed away peacefully on December 30, 2024, at the age of 88. His resilience and grace at the end were unwavering and a source of comfort to his family and friends. His gratitude for the dedicated and loving members of his care team was clear and heartfelt.

Bill was born at Lower Durham, N.B. Canada in 1936. His lifelong love and respect for the natural world began in the wood lots, streams, and fields of his youth. He was a true and avid outdoorsman and remained so throughout his life.

He moved to N.H. in 1955 where he worked clearing space for electric lines until several moves later, he settled in Ashland, Massachusetts with his beloved first wife Janice Van Dine. For 22 years, Bill served on the Ashland Police Department with dedication, compassion, and courage reaching the rank of Sergeant.

Bill was a civic and service minded person evident in his work on the Meredith Historical Society, serving as President for 6 years. He was also a trustee for the First Congregational Church and a Past Master at the Chocorua Lodge of Masons. Long fascinated by American Civil War history, he shared his knowledge with organizations throughout the Lakes Region.

Bill was many things to many people: a patriot, storyteller, role model, and good neighbor. He was much loved and admired by his immediate family and many friends. As a steadfast “pet whisperer” he shared a special bond with his beloved childhood beagle, Sassy, his Russian Blue cat, Smokey, and his grand-dog, Sawyer.

Bill is survived by his daughter, Gina (Pond) Patten and son-in-law, Lucas Patten; his son-in-law, David Morrison; his stepson, John Bird and daughter-in-law, Judi Bird; his stepdaughter, Martha Bird and daughter-in-law, Ginny Walsh; his stepdaughter, Sarah Bird and son-in-law, Rob Roriston; fourteen grandchildren; and many cousins and nieces, including Deb Nordahl.

Bill is predeceased by his brothers, Max and Tal; his first wife, Janice "Jan"; his second wife, Pat; and his son, Gilman. He believed strongly that he would see them again. And he will.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 2 pm at the First Congregational Church, UCC, 4 Highland Street, Meredith.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the Meredith Historical Society or to the First Congregational Church.

Arrangements are under the care of Mayhew Funeral Homes and Crematorium. To sign the online book of memories, go to mayhewfuneralhomes.com.