William J. Rooks

William James Rooks, of Touisset Point, Warren, died at home on July 9 at the age of 87.  He was the son of the late Webster and Jeanette (Jay) Rooks.  He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Paula (Hawkinson). 

Bill grew up on Warwick Neck with his younger brothers, Frederick (deceased) and Stephen.  He graduated from Moses Brown School and Williams College.  At Williams, Bill was an Economics major, participated in Air Force ROTC, and was a member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity.  During his life, he was an active member of the Barrington Congregational Church UCC, the  Barrington Jaycees, the Fall River Pilots Association, the Touisset Fire Company, the Touisset Point Community Club, and the  Plantations Investment Club. 

Bill devoted his career to family companies, serving as president and general manager of Northeast Products Company of Fall River for forty years.  He was also president of Spectrum Coatings Laboratories  and Carroll Coatings Company of Providence.

Bill had many passions in his life.  He was an avid sailor and enjoyed cruising vacations with his family throughout New England waters on their sloop, “a cappella”.  His love of sports also included  skiing, hiking and tennis.  He became a private pilot for the challenge and freedom of flying.  His curious mind and enthusiastic wanderlust led to extensive travel in the US and abroad. 

 A lover of live entertainment, Bill always looked forward to  attending theatrical and musical performances.  He was a voracious reader of history, with a special interest in the Civil War.

In addition to Paula, Bill is survived by his five children: John of Barrington, Elisa of Los Angeles, Kirsten (Hunter Williams) of Seattle, Will (Katie) of Falmouth, ME, and Peter of Barrington.  He also leaves his eleven grandchildren: Emma (Ajay Venkataraman), Hannah E., Sophie, Isaac Preven, Reva Preven, Nico Williams, Aiden Williams, Ben, Sam, Hannah R., and Graham.  Over the years, Bill found comfort in the many family cats and Golden Retrievers and leaves his cozy Siberian cats, Clara and Finn.

A graveside service will be held at Swan Point Cemetery 585 Blackstone Blvd Providence, RI 02906 on Monday, July 31, 2023 at 11:00 AM with a reception immediately following in the Garden Room at Swan Point Cemetery. Gifts in Bill’s name may be made to the Herreshoff Marine Museum, 1 Burnside Street, Bristol, RI 02809. https://herreshoff.org/support/#donate