MADAUS, William “Bill” Crosson of Hingham, MA, passed away on June 13, 2025, at the age of 85. He was born on March 10, 1940, in Worcester, the middle of three children of the late Marion and George Madaus.
Bill grew up in Worcester and graduated from St. John’s High School. He earned a degree in English from the College of the Holy Cross, followed by a master’s degree from Assumption College and a doctorate in Education from the University of Massachusetts.
He dedicated his professional life to public service and mental health care. He served as Assistant Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Youth Services before becoming Executive Director of Health and Education Services (HES), a North Shore–based mental health provider. Over nearly 30 years, he led a major expansion of community-based services and oversaw HES’s merger with Northeast Health Systems. He also served on the Board of Directors of Clubhouse International, a global mental health advocacy organization.
Bill’s greatest joy was his family. He and his beloved wife, Kathy, shared 57 years of marriage, raising four children and welcoming seven grandchildren. Known for his warmth, wit, and boundless enthusiasm, he treasured time with loved ones. He especially enjoyed winters in Florida and summers on Cape Cod, surrounded by his grandchildren, who affectionately called him “Poppa.”
He is survived by his daughter Kathleen of Hingham and her children, Liam and Julia; his son Chris and wife Tina of Dennis, and their children, Will, Stephanie, and Patrick; his son Matt and wife Heather of Vallejo, CA, and their children, Quinn and Owen; and his daughter Erica and husband Dave of Newport, RI.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
A visitation will be held at the George F. Doherty & Sons Funeral Home, 1305 Highland Ave, Needham on Tuesday, June 17 from 8:30-9:30am followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Needham at 10:00am. Relatives and friends kindly invited. Interment in Needham Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or
Clubhouse International, two organizations close to Bill’s heart.