 |
| Bill at 2010 Reunion |
It was fun meeting up with Bill again after fifty years at our reunion in 2010. Bill took it in his head after the reunion to visit the rectory of what is now St Martin de Porres church to chat up the pastor about the possibility of us former parishioners revisiting the church and school. The pastor was enthusiastic about the idea.
I had the memorable experience of joining Bill, Elaine, and the school's caretaker, Maurice, for a leisurely preview in February of how stunningly preserved the old church remains. A date was set for March 2011 and would include attending mass with the current parishioners and a coffee social afterward in our old school's basement 'canteen' with option to tour all around the school.
Word got around about how magical an experience it all was, leading to a second reunion with a larger turnout in September 2012. It was a moving and nostalgic experience for so many of us. And none of it would have happened without Bill taking the initiative. Because of Bill's sweet and affable modesty, few people were aware of his important contributions.
Dan also created a photo video of Bill which can be viewed by clicking here.
Rest in peace, Bill.
***************************************************
Bill's sister Marian has posted a link to the funeral parlor's site. She welcomes people to leave a note of condolence.
William “Bill” Stocker, age 68, U.S. Air Force veteran, passed away May 27, 2015 after a long battle with congestive heart failure. Bill was a loving companion to his girlfriend of four years, Mariellen Norris. They shared a happy home together along with their cherished dogs, Buster, Jake and Kahlua. Bill is survived by his devoted sisters and brothers; Marian (Jim) Judd, Bob (Joan) Stocker, Pegi (Paul) Meegan, Tom (Patti) Stocker, Betty (late Frank)LaMasse, (late) Terri (Jeff) Klingseisen. Also his many nieces and nephews; Michael Sullivan, Marisa Sullivan, Rob Stocker, Ryan Meegan, John Stocker, Kelly Meegan, Lisa (Jake) Steve, Lauren LaMasse, Sara Klingseisen, and Michael Klingseisen.
Bill graduated from St. Thomas Aquinas grade school and St. Mel’s High School. Bill was an electrician by trade and he was an avid bowler with 300 games. His love of ice-skating was eventually met with being an instructor at Santa’s Village ice rink in Dundee, IL. Physical training daily was his passion. His dry sense of humor and quick wit will be missed. He was so sweetly modest that few people knew he was responsible for bringing the St. Thomas Aquinas West side parishioners together after fifty years. So many were moved by revisiting the church and grammar school of their youth, and it wouldn't have happened if not for Bill.
Bill also chose himself to be the daily caregiver for his brother-in-law, Frank LaMasse during his battle with prostate cancer. For several months Bill came early AM to late PM to spend time caring for him. Wheel chair wheelies through the neighborhood, card games and attending his many needs. We were so proud of him.
At his request the internment will be private. Donations to BestPals Animal Rescue Center would be a kind expression of condolence if desired. Donations to the non-profit BestPals can be sent via paypal through their website, http://bestpalsarc.wix.com/bestpals
