William Edward Padden, 77, died March 25, 2025. He was born in Boston, Mass., to the late James F. Padden and Frances L. (Kennedy) Padden.

He lived a full and rich life with his beloved wife, Susan (Vaughan) Padden, for 56 years. He was devoted to his four beautiful grandchildren, enjoying their many sports activities and hobbies and the important celebrations, always traveling with Susan from southern states for these events.

He was commissioned on the USS Hornet for his four years of service after enlisting in the U.S. Navy in 1966. The Hornet was the primary recovery vessel for Apollo 11 and 12 moon missions. The crew of the Hornet, the press and President Richard Nixon welcomed the astronauts home, aboard the Hornet, from Apollo 11 mission on July 24, 1969. He had the privilege of being part of the team that off-loaded moon artifacts into the quarantine trailer. He considered serving in the Navy to be an honor and a privilege.

He was very proud of his 41-year career at Mack Trucks/Volvo Trucks, Inc. He loved his work, the challenges and, most of all, the people he met daily. He was well respected by all at Mack Allentown, Mack Winnsboro, S.C. and Volvo Trucks, Dublin, Va. He retired in 2015.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his sister, Carol (Greg) Kolasa; daughter, Jennifer (Dale) Dickson, son, Christopher (Megan); grandchildren, Keenan, Kathryn, Lila and Jackson.

A graveside service will be private.

Arrangements were made by Trexler Funeral Home, Inc.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Amedisys Hospice, Bethlehem or St. James Lutheran Church, Coopersburg, 18036.