William Rowland

ROWLAND, William, 97, was born in New York City, attended Cooper Union, and died April 19, 2011. He was a professional mechanical engineer and was retired from Diamond Match Co. He served in the Navy during World War II on the USS Corbesier, Destroyer Escort 438 in the Pacific from June 1944 to November 1945. He enjoyed playing tennis and golf. He was an ACBL Bridge Life Master.

He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Estelle Densen; two daughters, Linda Friedman and husband, David, Laura Schooley and husband, Wayne; five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. He greatly enjoyed painting; many of his paintings adorn the walls of the house. Bill and Estelle lived in Brooklyn, N.Y., Stamford, Conn., and Springfield, Mass., before moving to Richmond 17 years ago. The family would like to thank Pat, Priscilla and Nikki for the care they gave him in his last weeks.

Visitation will take place at Woody Funeral Home, Parham Road, on Thursday, April 21, from 5 to 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society .