William R. Dockery

William R. Dockery passed away on April 2, 2022, at the age of 77.  His wife of 55 years and all five of his children stood by his bedside until he finally crossed over.  His family was caught off guard.  However, his presence was a comfort, for even in his weakened condition, his influence and love helped prepare them for the inevitable outcome.  He truly was an incredible husband and father.  His family will miss him every day, as will the many friends he made.

Bill is survived by his wife Patricia and five children: Bill, Jeff, Tim, Judy, and Nancy.  He has been blessed by eleven grand-children that love and will miss “Poppy”.

Born and raised in Colon, Panama (Canal Zone), he and his seven siblings had a unique and magical childhood.  If not playing in the jungle, or participating in track and field, you would find Bill fishing along Gatun Lake, the French Canal, and the Pacific and Atlantic shores.  This brought about his love for the outdoors which continued until the very end.  

He was an avid sportsman and loved mentoring others in the finer points of game fishing and hunting.

After having served in the Air Force as a fireman, Bill made his living as an engineering draftsman.  During his career he evolved from paper and pen to computerized design of manufacturing piping.  His designs served in the petroleum, chemical, iron cokers, and health and beauty industries.  His services were sought after all over the world.   Some of the places his career took to include many US states, Kuwait, Canada, and the Philippines, just to name a few.

He made many friends along the way, and was lovingly known as ‘DOC’.  He was a regular attendee of the yearly Panama Canal Zone reunion.  He enjoyed celebrating his heritage and culture and reveled in being called a ‘CZ Brat’.  Bill could often be found on the phone with friends he made during his career at Foster Wheeler, Bernard and Burke, and as an independent consulting draftsman.  His generosity with his time and energy made for rich, long-lasting relationships.  He loved and was loved by many.

A Viewing to celebrate his life will be held on Thursday April 7, 2022 from 4:00-6:00 PM at the Finegan Funeral Home, in Alpha NJ.  (924 Second Avenue, Alpha, NJ, 08865)