Tehachapi News

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William M. Roper, Jr was born in Fort Smith, AK, but spent most of his life in California. Bill was a flea marker and garage sale enthusiast, radio operator and RV traveler. He enjoyed boating and fishing, He considered himself a jack- of- all- trades when it came to inventing or repairing. A hobby of his was growing beautiful roses and at one time he had over 31 varieties.
He honorably served with a Glider Infantry Battalion during WW II and made several wartime jumps. He later worked as a maintenance machinist and after 25 years took early retirement to pursue new possibilities, which included the locksmith trade. During that time, Gloria and he raised a fine son William Jr. of whom he thought the world. He was later blessed with a daughter- in- law Marla, a granddaughter Janel and a grandson Eric. He took great pride in each of them. He married his wife Janet 15 years ago and they moved to Tehachapi in 1999.
He valued his privacy, yet there are those who will remember his face, warm greetings and gifts of fruits or vegetables from the flea market. random acts of kindness toward people in need were an attribute of his.
Bill is survived by his wife janet, his son and wife, Bill and Maria, grandson Eric, granddaughter Janel Smithling and her husband. Also, by marriage, surviving him are three step-sons, an uncle Msgr. Pointek, aunt Kathryn Chwaz, brother- in- law, niece, nephew, friends, Gloria and neighbors. We will miss him very much. A memorial service officiated by Father Joel Davadilla, Pastor will be held at 10:00 am, July 21, at St Kmalachy’s Catholic Church in Tehachapi.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to either the American Cancer Society or Optimal Hospice. Wood Family Funeral Service, Inc. handled the services.