William Foulke Obituary

William Dudley Foulke passed away at home on Saturday, March 3, 2012. He was born August 9, 1927 to Joseph Kenneth Foulke and Elizabeth Place Foulke. He was raised by his beloved paternal Grandmother, "Flossie" in the family home at 247 West Park Ave. in Aurora, now a historic land mark. Bill attended West Aurora High School. Throughout his life he looked back fondly on his time playing high school football. He graduated in 1945 and immediately entered the U.S. Navy. He was stationed in San Francisco and worked as a chauffeur for senior officers. Upon discharge from the Navy, Bill entered Aurora College and later transferred to Kent State University where he earned a bachelor's degree in Business. In 1950 he was hired as a buyer at Burgess-Norton Manufacturing in Geneva. This was the start of a 42-year career at B-N where he retired as a Purchasing Manager in 1992. Bill will be remembered for the love and stability that he provided for his family. He was always there when needed. He was also a lover of the outdoors and taught his sons to be active outdoor enthusiasts from an early age. He practiced what he preached as well, skiing in Sun Valley in the 1950's, canoeing in Canada and hiking in the Rockies. He played golf and handball until he was 82. Bill married Melissa Reinhardt in 1956. Their loving marriage lasted the rest of his life. Bill is survived by Melissa, his wife of 55 years, two sons, Jonathan and his wife Terese of Big Arm, Montana and Thomas of Laramie, Wyoming, two grandchildren, Montana and Jedd and step-children Briana and Tony. He is also survived by his sister Elizabeth Jabas and her husband Don of Appleton, Wisconsin and close cousins, Edward Foulke and Jocelyn Foulke Lyon. Bill was a life-long Christian Scientist and 56-year member of the First Church of Christ Scientists, Geneva. Private services will be held at a later date.