William J Rice

Born February 29, 1936 in Winchester, he was the son of Harold and Bessie (Wilde) Rice.

In 1971, Mr. Rice married Hattie R. Whipple during a ceremony in Langdon.

Following his service in the U.S. Army, he worked with optical lenses for American Optical and Twin States Optical before his retirement.

He enjoyed fishing and bowling. In addition he was a camping fanatic, having spent many nights with the family all over New England. He held Horseshoe Acres in Andover, VT as a favorite. He was also instrumental in the development of Wheelock Park. He was involved with the NAFCA for over 20 years.

He was an avid race car fan, with a fondness for Dale Earnhardt.

Mr. Rice is survived by his son: David Rice and his wife, Charlene of Harrisville; daughters: Lynn Talbot of Belmont and Dennise Kissell and her husband, William Jr. of Keene; grandchildren: Ryan Talbot of Gilford, Shawna Talbot of Belmont, Angela Fletcher of Antrim and Jeffrey Kissell of Keene; and 4 great grandchildren.

Services will be held 1:00PM, Tuesday, October 22, 2013 at Fletcher Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 33 Marlboro St, Keene, NH 03431 with family accepting friends from 12:00PM until the service.

Memorial contributions, in Mr. Rice’s name, may be directed to Arthritis Foundation, P.O. Box 96280 Washington, DC 20077

Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.fletcherfuneralhome.com