William F. McAvenia Fund

William F. McAvenia was born on February 20, 1933. He was married to Anne T. (Surette) McAvenia and together they had five children, Stephen K. McAvenia, Jeanne Buocheau, Theresa Penza, Catherine DuPont and Joanne McAvenia. William joined the Wakefield Fire Department on May 21, 1962. He died on August 19, 1972 when he succumbed to injuries he sustained in the line of duty. At the time of his death, legions of firefighters from all over Massachusetts arrived at St. Joseph’s Church to pay their last respects and offer condolences to Mrs. MacAvenia and her five young children.

To mark the thirtieth anniversary of his death, his wife and children established this fund. Whenever possible, awards from this fund will be given to students planning a career in fire fighting.