William Richard Klaila

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of William Richard Klaila, of Middleborough, MA who died peacefully after a short battle with cancer on March 14, 2026, at the age of 67 surrounded by his family.

He was the beloved husband of Terri Klaila (Timmons) with whom he shared a cherished life filled with adventure and love. He is also survived by his devoted children, daughter, Stephanie Klaila, and son, William Klaila, his grandchildren Robbie, Layla and Isla as well as his nephews, Eddie Shaugnessy and Tim Duphily. Bill was the beloved son of the late Katherine and William James Klaila of Middleborough and the brother of the late Barbara Sideris, Nancy Schultz and Patricia Duphily.

Early in his career, he worked closely with his dad inventing and demonstrating an improved system for heating hydrocarbon material with electromagnetic energy to reduce the viscosity of oil flowing in oil pipelines and abandoned wells and extracting oil from shale rock. They held several patents and conducted many successful projects in Oklahoma and Louisiana until the bottom fell out of the oil industry in the early 80s.

As one of the owners of GTR Manufacturing, Bill spearheaded the company's electromechanical division and led the company in significant growth and success over his 30 years of contribution. He was truly a visionary. His expertise and loyalty to the company was only surpassed by his leadership skills with his staff. His generosity and kindness to his team shone through in their loyalty to him. He will be sorely missed by all.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bill had many interests. He had a passion for learning that included electronics, space, science, automobiles, nature and music. He liked tinkering in his garage and basement on various projects, sitting by the fire listening to music and playing "monster" to his many nieces, nephews and grandchildren. He enjoyed traveling and spending time at Saquish Beach in the summer.

Above all, he enjoyed the company of his family and friends and his three wonderful grandchildren.

We are forever grateful to have been part of his life. Bill was so kind and generous to all who knew him. He was a confidant for those who needed guidance and a shoulder to lean on for those who just needed a friend. His legacy will continue to live through those lives he touched.

Visitation will be held at the Dahlborg-MacNevin Funeral Home, at 280 Bedford Street, Lakeville, MA 02347 on Sunday, March 22, 2026, from 2:00-5:00PM.

A funeral mass will take place on Monday, March 23rd at 10:00 AM at St. Sacred Heart Church, 340 Centre Street, Middleborough, MA.

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