Bill Hockman

Bill Eugene Hockman, 88, of Cape Girardeau died Thursday, Jan. 14, 2010, at Chateau Girardeau Health Center.

He was born Nov. 28, 1921, in Noble, Ill., to George A. and Lena M. Taylor Hockman. He and Virginia Claire Rawlings were married Dec. 21, 1946, in Henderson, Ky. She preceded him in death July 1, 2005.

Bill retired from the U.S. Army as a first lieutenant with 22 years honorable service. During World War II he served as parachute infantry unit commander. The last 13 years of service were spent as a recruiting representative and recruiting supervisor while stationed in Farmington, Mo.

He then joined the Social Security Administration as a claims representative, moving to Cape Girardeau in 1970. He retired in 1985.

Bill was an avid golfer, belonging to Kimbeland Country Club many years. He was a member of Abbey Road Christian Church and a lifetime deacon.

Survivors include a daughter, Angela G. Beck of Jackson; a grandson, Jeffrey Beck of Jackson; a granddaughter, Laura (Jebb) Lauinger of San Antonio; a great-grandson, Hunter Lauinger of San Antonio; and many loving caregivers at Chateau Girardeau.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and a sister.

There is no visitation.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday at Cape County Memorial Park Mausoleum, with the Rev. Rodger Kiepe officiating. Military rites will be conducted by Missouri Honor Guard.

Memorial contributions may be given to Abbey Road Christian Church or to VFW Post 3838 Building Fund.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.