February 1, 1932 — October 26, 2025
Born on February 1, 1932, in Long Beach, NY, Bill was the son of Flora (Anenberg) Haberman and Herman Haberman, and brother to Rica Haberman. He graduated early from Long Beach High School at age 17, excelling in gymnastics, wrestling, track, and marching band before heading to MIT, where his lifelong journey of learning and service truly began.
While at MIT, Bill met the love of his life, Berna (Bernstein) Haberman, at the end of his senior year in 1953. It was love at first date, and they married later that same year—beginning a remarkable 72-year marriage defined by love, adventure, and family. Together, they raised four children: David (and Demi Mendivil) Haberman of Livermore, CA; Steven (and Becca Powers) Haberman of Spencer, MA; Robert (deceased, and Susan Goldstein) Haberman of Framingham, MA; and Lyn (Haberman) and Brian Branscomb of Hopkinton, MA. Bill was also preceded in death by Maureen (Cronin) Haberman.
Bill’s legacy continues through his ten grandchildren, their partners, and seven great-grandchildren—all of whom were constant sources of pride and joy. He also cherished his extended family, including Rona (Bernstein) and the late Myron Solberg of New Brunswick, NJ; Barton Bernstein (deceased) of Dallas, TX; and their children and grandchildren, all of whom he considered part of his close family circle.
A graduate of MIT (Class of 1953) with a degree in aeronautical engineering, Bill later earned his master’s degree before embarking on a distinguished career marked by innovation and integrity. He began at RCA, then dedicated 30 years to Mitre Corporation, developing communications and security systems—including contributions to Boeing’s AWACS aircraft. After retirement, his expertise was sought at Hanscom Air Force Base, where he continued consulting until age 73.
A proud U.S. Air Force veteran, Bill served two years following graduation before returning to Massachusetts to settle and raise his family in Framingham.
Outside of his career, Bill’s life was defined by community service. Elected to Framingham Town Meeting in 1960, he served the town in numerous capacities for more than five decades—as Commissioner of Public Works, member of the Public Works Standing Committee, and the Government Study Committee. Known as a “voice of reason,” Bill was respected for his fairness, intellect, and unwavering commitment to improving his community.
He also served on the founding boards of Temple Beth Shalom and the Clearbrook Swim Club (now part of the MetroWest YMCA), and was a passionate advocate for civic and cultural engagement.
Bill and Berna’s love for travel, learning, and adventure took them across the United States and around the world—to Europe, Russia, China, India, Israel, and South America—always seeking to learn about people, culture, and Jewish history. He instilled in his children a sense of wonder, curiosity, and the joy of discovery.
At home, Bill was an avid sailor, skier, and camper, passing those passions on to his children and grandchildren. The Habermans’ annual family trips to Sebago Lake State Park in Maine became a cherished family tradition still carried on today. Whether sailing on Lake Cochituate, exploring caves in New England, or camping cross-country from Seattle to Boston, Bill’s zest for life and adventure was contagious.
A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Bill’s greatest joy was being surrounded by his family—hosting Jewish holidays, sharing stories, and celebrating milestones together. His warmth, humor, and wisdom will live on through every life he touched.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, October 29, at 11 a.m. at the Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home, 62 West Main Street, Westborough, MA. Burial will follow at Temple Beth El Cemetery, 4515 N. Main Street, Fall River, MA.
Shiva will be observed at the Branscomb family home following the burial through 6 p.m., and will continue on Thursday from 1–5 p.m. and 6–8 p.m. (with a service at 7 p.m.), and on Friday and Saturday from 12–3 p.m.
For those unfamiliar with Jewish tradition, shiva is a time of reflection and remembrance—a chance to visit with the family, share stories, and pay respects.
May Bill’s memory forever be a blessing.
