A memorial service was held last month for Stamford resident William W. Barton. The World War II veteran whose scientific knowledge enhanced the effectiveness of aircraft during the war died at Stamford Hospital on Sept. 7 after a brief illness. He was 86.
Barton was born Jan. 13, 1924, in Toronto. His education at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology was interrupted because of World War II. He served in the U.S. Army Air Forces as a first lieutenant. His duties included determining balances and weights for aircraft that transported heavy equipment and supplies.
After the war, Barton completed his studies at MIT, earning a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering in 1948 and a master's degree a year later. He was elected a member of Sigma Xi, the national honorary scientific society. Barton worked in the areas of optical and nuclear engineering design.
He had an affinity for sailing, a favorite family activity. He was the Stamford Yacht Club's junior sailing chairman and commander of the Stamford Power Squadron. Barton also enjoyed reading and exploring genealogy. He published a 500-word book, established two websites and had an international circle of friends and acquaintances via email.
Barton was married for 59 years to his wife, Elizabeth Ann, who survives him along with daughters Carol Barton Gross of Windham, N.H., and Diane Elizabeth Barton of Stamford; and three grandchildren. His son, Douglas Alan Barton, predeceased him.
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