William Edgar Staples, DMD, 84, of Canton, MA, died on July 9, 2013. He was born on November 12, 1928 in Springfield, MA, where he attended local schools. After completing his undergraduate education, Dr. Staples graduated cum laude from Tufts University Medical School and earned an Oral Surgery specialization from the University of Pennsylvania. In 1951, Dr. Staples was commissioned as First Lieutenant in the US Air Force and served as a Dental Officer in France. Dr. Staples returned to the United States and established a dental practice in Canton where he served the community until his retirement in 2004. While in Canton, he married Eleanor “Elee” M. Delaney, RN, and was active in the Massachusetts Dental Society and the Canton Historical Society. He was a Past President of the Milton Hoosic Club, and lent his talents to the innumerable charitable events organized by Elee. Dr. Staples was a student of the world, reading widely and attending Boston Symphony Orchestra concerts whenever possible. An avid skier and runner, as well as lifelong Red Sox fan, he also loved to dine at new restaurants in the area.
Dr. Staples is survived by his children, Maureen Elise (Mark) Kozak, Park City, UT; Kathleen Kym (Wesley Hellman) Staples, Bismarck, ND; William Bradford (Patricia) Staples, Longmeadow, MA; and Jon Douglas (Rosalinda) Staples, York, PA; twelve grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sisters, and his wife Eleanor. Visiting hours at the Dockray & Thomas Funeral Home 455 Washington St. Canton Sunday 4-8 pm. Funeral mass at St. Gerard Majella Church Canton Monday morning at 10 am. Burial VA National Cemetery, Bourne Monday at 2:30 pm.