William N. Hooks, Jr., 93, of Colonial Beach, VA passed away on November 15, 2023.

Bill graduated from Kings Point Merchant Marine Academy in 1953. Known for his unwavering determination, he pursued his goals with steadfast dedication. Bill possessed a unique ability to think outside the box, and his proudest career moments were marked by his work on projects including the Tomahawk missiles and the Saturn II rocket with Rocketdyne in California. His career brought him to Dahlgren where he retired in 1994.

During the Korean War era, Bill served in the Navy as a pilot/navigator, flying numerous missions over the South China Sea in search of enemy mines. As a veteran, Bill was an active member of the Colonial Beach VFW Post 10574, where he served in various capacities including District Commander. He was also a dedicated member of the American Legion.

Bill’s quick wit and humor endeared him to many. He He loved sharing jokes with friends and strangers alike, always seeing the best in people and offering encouragement. His zest for life was evident in his daily exercise routine and adventurous spirit. Whether roughing it in a tent or enjoying the luxuries of a resort, Bill loved to travel and camp with his family. He found joy in building model trains, both for summer and winter landscapes, as well as collecting lighthouses and model airplanes.

To his family, Bill was an absolute rock.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Bill & Rose Hooks; and his wife of 51 years, Maureen.

Bill is survived by his wife, Sandra; children, Philip (Charlene) and Michele; step-daughter, Catherine (James); grandchildren, Alex, Amy, Summer, Angela, Argus, Amber, and Drew; step-granddaughter, Celes; and ten great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends from 11am to 12noon on Saturday, November 25, 2023 at Storke Funeral Home, Colonial Beach followed by a funeral service at 12noon. Burial will be handled privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Colonial Beach VFW Post 10574 (Attn: Quartermaster, PO Box 39, Colonial Beach, VA 22443), American Legion Colonial Beach Post 148 (27 Colonial Ave, Colonial Beach, VA  22443) or Colonial Beach United Methodist Church (PO Box 189, Colonial Beach, VA 22443).

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Ankur Sandu, the At Home Care and At Home Care Hospice teams for their aid in helping with Bill’s care.

Storke Funeral Home, Colonial Beach is handling arrangements.