Obituary of William E. Bent

William Edson Bent Sr. passed away at the Lahey Clinic Medical Center on Wednesday October 30, 2013 at the age of 83. William was born at home in Cambridge, the son of the late John and Grace Bent. He grew up in Cambridge and was a graduate of Rindge Technical High School. He married Claire Servello in 1952 and they settled in Arlington to raise their 3 sons. They were married until her death in 1986. Known to all as Bill, he worked in the banking industry throughout his career, starting out as a teller in community banks and eventually selling computers to banks all over New England. He took great pride and pleasure in his career achievements, such as earning multiple awards for top sales performance. He also served as a member of the Air National Guard for 8 years. Always the life of the party, Bill enjoyed all family and social gatherings, and was known as an entertaining teller of stories and jokes. One of his favorite pastimes with friends and family was playing card games with great skill and a competitive spirit. Everyone who knew him was impressed by his sharp mind and keen wit. Over the last 20 plus years, he has enjoyed the companionship of his partner and fiancée, Nancy Woodman. Together they shared the most wonderful memories and supported each other through the most difficult times. They were beloved members of their Burlington neighborhood and community. He will be sorely missed by Nancy, who survives him. Bill will also be missed and fondly remembered by his sons, William E. Bent Jr. and Robert J. Bent and his wife Nancy, all of Arlington, his elder brother, John Bent of Watertown, his four grandchildren, Stephanie, Michael, Laura Bent and Erin Corbett. He was also a great-grandfather of two. His middle son, Gerard Bent, predeceased him as did his sisters Mary Fitzgerald, Eleanor Kessel, and Phyllis Curtis. Funeral services will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn St., BURLINGTON (exit 34 off Rt. 128/95, Woburn side on Saturday November 2 at 11 a.m. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited. Memorials in Bill’s name may be made to Visiting Nurse and Community Health, 37 Broadway, Suite 2, Arlington, MA 02474-5552.