Wilfred E. Morin, 31, dog warden,, saved Michael S. Albee, 6, from being shot, Burlington, Connecticut, May 25, 1966. Michael, waiting at a school bus stop, was abducted by a man and taken to the latter’s home near a steep hill heavily covered with underbrush. Obtaining two loaded shotguns and extra ammunition, the man took Michael about 780 feet up the hill to a ledge, where he built a barricade of rocks. Police who had been notified gathered at the edge of a wooded area at the foot of the hill. They called to the man to release Michael, but he said he would not. Morin arrived as the man’s sister, accompanied by a policeman, started up the hill to talk to him. They were within 300 feet of the barricade when the man leaned over the top of the rocks with a shotgun in his hand. At shouts of warning from the police, the woman dropped to the ground. The man fired, wounding the policeman. He and the woman moved down the hill. Morin, who knew the man casually, called to him and identified himself. When the man said he would like some water, Morin said he would bring it to him if he would then release Michael. The man agreed. Police warned Morin not to approach the man lest he be shot, but Morin said he was willing to take the risk. Carrying a bottle of water with him, Morin proceeded up the hill. Morin was within 480 feet of the barricade the man shouted that he had decided not to give up Michael. The police captain called to Morin not to go any farther. Morin dropped to the ground behind a tree and waited briefly. He then proceeded up the hill, calling to the man who aimed his shotgun at him. Continuing to behind the barricade, Morin gave the water to the man and tried to persuade him to surrender. The man refused but told Morin to take Michael. As Morin left the barricade with Michael, the man crouched behind the rocks with his gun aimed down the hill. Morin moved down the hill to the wooded area with Michael. Meanwhile two policemen had moved up other sides of the hill to positions above the man. They called to him that he was covered. The man shot at one of the policemen, and both fired at him. The man was fatally wounded.
48849-5227Obituary
Born on October 7, 1934, in Van Buren, Maine, Willie’s life story is a testament to courage, kindness, and a relentless spirit that touched all who had the privilege to know him. Willie was the cherished son of the late John and Mary Morin. He grew up surrounded by a loving family, including his predeceased siblings, Clifford, Herman, Rudy, Flo, and Florine, who undoubtedly welcomed him with open arms in the great beyond. In 1956, Willie married the love of his life, Marie. Together, they built a home filled with laughter and love, sharing 69 wonderful years of marriage. Marie preceded him in death, along with their beloved son, Jay.
Willie is survived by his sisters Gerry Kovaleski and Terry Poharczyk, devoted daughter, Lori Hackling and her husband Ray Hackling, daughter in law Denise and his caring son, Jeffrey Morin and his wife Donna. He leaves behind a legacy in his grandchildren—Zachary Morin, Tyler Morin, Lauren Wilson, James Morin, Michael Morin, and Ray Hackling—and six great-grandchildren who will forever carry his spirit in their hearts. Willie’s career was as colorful as his personality. He was the beloved bartender at LaMonico’s restaurant for many years, serving not just drinks but also his trademark quick wit and charm. He ventured into entrepreneurship with Bristol Pavement and later, the Coppermine Café, where his hospitality and zest for life made every visit a memorable occasion.
A true hero, Willie was awarded the Carnegie Medal for Heroism in 1966, a testament to his bravery when he risked his own life to save a six-year-old boy from a perilous situation. This act of courage is just one of many ways he demonstrated his remarkable character. Willie was a Life Member of the Bristol Elks Lodge, where his presence was as comforting as it was lively. Hunting trips with his sons and nephews were among his cherished pastimes, celebrating the joy of nature and family bonds. Willie’s charm, quick wit, and vibrant personality made him the life of every gathering. His ability to bring joy and laughter to those around him was unmatched, and his legacy will live on in the countless hearts he touched.