William M. Linskey, Sr.

William M. Linskey, Sr. of Danvers with lifelong ties to Salem, MA passed away at home on Monday, July 6, 2026, at 77 years old. Just one week shy of his 78th birthday. Bill was born and raised in Salem to Ruth (Owens) and Francis Linskey. 

In 1968 he was drafted into the Army. His letter of recommendation following boot camp stated, "He is not afraid to work and is always looking for something to do." This was something that carried through his entire life. Following his honorable discharge from the Army he returned to Salem. Where he got his start in construction working for Mackey and Sons. Bill eventually started Linskey Construction Inc., a site utility company. He was a talented heavy equipment operator and extremely knowledgeable. He achieved numerous licenses in the construction industry, most of which he maintained up until his passing. 

His true passion and calling in life were one of service. He pursued becoming an EMT, EMT state examiner, educator, and firefighter, serving on the Wenham Fire Department and the local FEMA team. After injuring his neck, he was no longer able to actively serve. Bill continued sharing his knowledge, experience and appreciation for safety through teaching. He opened North Shore Training Center and up until his death was teaching MA Hoisting License Education and OSHA safety. Bill had a strong drive to serve his community and be involved. He entered the Masonic Lodge where he found brotherhood throughout New England. To his Maine brothers he was affectionally known as cupcake. He also belonged to Aleppo Shriners in Wilmington. The Andover Sportsman Club was also another place where he found lasting friendships. In the hot summer months, he could be seen driving his Bobcat UTV through Salem, bringing ice-cold water to the Police officers working details. His love for EMS could be seen in his lifelong collection of scale models at one point included a fire truck Salem Engine 5. 

He is survived by his daughter and several grandchildren. Over the past few years Bill was living in Danvers with his daughter, Brianne, her husband Kevin Talbot, his grandchildren Emma, Isabelle and Tyler. He spent most of his time working in his dream garden and in the colder months in his loader plowing snow for the town. He loved his grandchildren. With Em he shared his love for gardening and animals. He was always there for Isabelle and enjoyed driving her around. With Tyler he shared the love of work and heavy equipment. 

He will be remembered for his extensive knowledge. Over his lifetime he had forgotten more than most people know. He was not a perfect man, but he certainly tried to the best of his ability, to be a good man. To his friends he was a person that would always show up. Bill was the definition of an old-school blue-collar guy. With a larger-than-life presence. He always had a story to tell. He made friends wherever he went and always left a lasting impression.

Contributions may be made in William’s memory to: k9sforwarriors.org or to donate.shrinerschildrens.org or to massfreemasonry.org/donate/.