William M. Rodgers, Sr. of Bensalem died peacefully surrounded by his wife and children on Thursday November 14, at Wood River Village.

He was 87.

Born in Philadelphia, he was the beloved husband of 65 years to Carolyn (Marie) M. Slusman Rodgers. Son of the late John and Bertha Merrick Rodgers, Bill was the 10th of their 13 children. He was predeceased by six sisters, four brothers and his son-in-law, Anthony Amato.

Bill was a graduate of North Catholic High School, class of 1944 and joined the Navy a week after graduation. He was a proud Navy veteran serving on the USS Randolph Aircraft Carrier during World War II. During Bill’s tour of duty, his aircraft carrier delivered the marines who appear in the well known memorial to Iwo Jima. He and his fellow sailors were present in the Sea of Japan when the Japanese surrendered, ending World War II.

Bill lived most of his life in the Mayfair section of Northeast Philadelphia. He was a communicant for many years at Saint Matthew’s parish before moving to Holland where he enjoyed being a member of Saint Bede the Venerable parish. For the last four years Bill resided at Wood River Village in Bensalem.

Bill’s professional career spanned over 30 years as a Manager for Derr Flooring Company up to his retirement in 1991.

Bill loved the beach in the summer, taking care of his cars and took pride in his family. When they were small, Bill’s grandchildren greatly enjoyed “helping” Pop Pop with his household tasks.

He will be sadly missed by his loving and devoted family.

In addition to his beloved wife, Marie, Bill is survived by his two daughters, Carolyn Amato, Suzanne Rodgers and her husband Anthony Porrazza and his son, William M. Rodgers, Jr. and his wife Dorothy. He is also the dear brother of Francis and Edward Rodgers, the proud grandfather of 12, great grandfather of 10 and the favorite uncle of numerous nieces and nephews.

His family would like to give a special thanks to the staff of Wood River Village Personal Care Unit for their loving care of “Uncle Bill” over the last three years. We also appreciate the support and medical care provided by the Parkinson’s Center at the VA Hospital, especially Heidi Watson.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his viewing on Tuesday, November 19, 2013 from 10:00am until his Funeral Mass at 11:30am in Saint Bede the Venerable Church, 1071 Holland Road, Holland, Pennsylvania 18966. Interment to follow at Washington Crossing National Cemetery, Newtown, Pennsylvania.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, Grand Central Station, PO Box 4777, New York, New York 10163.