William Joe  Rockey passed away on October 11, 2024, at Good Samaritan Valley Vista in Wamego, KS. Born on December 21, 1944, he was the third child of Oliver Chadleigh and Vinita Frances Sutherland Rockey in Horton, KS.

Bill grew up in Robinson, KS, and graduated from Robinson High School in 1962. He was actively involved in various sports and clubs during his school years.

On November 28, 1964, Bill married Connie Jimeson in Hiawatha, KS. They were excited to celebrate their 60th anniversary this November.

Bill proudly served in the US Army, being honorably discharged in December 1967 after his time with the 7th Army in Germany.

For 37 years, Bill worked for the KS Gas Service. After retiring, he became a talented benchman for several local jewelry stores, crafting custom pieces. He particularly enjoyed making jewelry for his children and grandchildren, creating special items that they will cherish for years to come. His passion for woodworking also shone through in the beautiful wooden pieces he crafted, each reflecting his dedication and creativity.

Bill loved hunting and riding his motorcycle, and he created many wonderful memories with Connie as they traveled all over this beautiful country. In December 2014, they moved to Wamego, KS, to be closer to their kids and enjoy their grandchildren's activities.

A dedicated member of the Bethany United Church of Christ, Bill served on the consistory and helped with various projects. He also volunteered as an assistant troop leader for Boy Scout Troop 313 and was involved with the Mic-O-Say tribe at Camp Geiger in St. Joseph, MO. He was a former president of the Brown County Chapter of Quails Unlimited and was affiliated with the American Legion and the Steel Workers Union. Bill was a hard worker, a talented craftsman, and a devoted father and grandfather.

He is survived by his wife, Connie; son Shane; daughter Shannon and her husband, Michael Leitch; and grandchildren Darby, MaryKate, and Quinn Leitch, all of Wamego. He is also survived by his siblings: Vinita Thonen, David (Vicki) Rockey, John (Renee) Rockey, Virginia (James) Collins, and Nancy (Gary) Oswald, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He will be remembered by his brothers-in-law Sam Jimeson and Phil Schaider, and his sister-in-law Merrie Jimeson.

A celebration of Bill’s eternal life is planned for 1:30 p.m. Saturday, October 19, at the Bethany United Church of Christ in Hiawatha with Shane Spangler officiating.  The family will visit with friends in fellowship hall following the service. Military honors will be a courtesy of the Brown County Veterans Honor Guard.
 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Bethany Church Piano Fund sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.
 

Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home until 4:30 Thursday and Friday afternoons.

In honor of Bill’s love for his jeans, the family requests casual attire - preferably denim - for those attending the service.

The service will be livestreamed at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com