William Riley “Bill” VanHooser

February 16, 1933 — September 28, 2021

William Riley “Bill” VanHooser, age 88 of Stafford passed away on Tuesday September, 28 2021 at Stafford Hospital.

Born in Taylorville, Ill. he joined the military at 17 retiring with 22 years of service from the USAF in 1972. During his years in the military he traveled with his family to Hawaii and Germany before settling in Virginia. After the military he worked for the Capital Police until 1988. He built his home in Stafford with help from family where he spent his remaining years enjoying his life.

He prioritized God, family and friends. He was always willing to help others and gave so much of himself to others. He was a devoted Baptist and member of Immanuel Baptist Church in Fredericksburg where he was active with the men’s bible study.

He had so many favorite things that kept him busy including fishing in Aquia Creek (in his back yard), fixing motors for fishing boats, tinkering with cars, building his grandchildren a go-cart, fixing German clocks and anything mechanical.

At one point his carpenter skills came out and he made rock- ing chairs, sewing boxes and cabinets which he donated to those in need. Then he was off to metal work making many of the parts he needed. He could repair anything and often helped anyone with a need.

He is survived by his wife, Rosetta VanHooser; daughter Sandi Baxter (Jack) in San Diego; daughters-in-law Peggy VanHooser (Larry) in King George and Jutta VanHooser (Billy) in Germany; step-daughters, Patty Mellott, Gena Wilhour, Libby Ganey; 6 grandchildren David VanHooser, Joni Parker, Edith Bell, Jessica Wooten, Brandy Mckusker, Chris VanHooser, Kayla Gesek and Gina Baxter; 10 great-grandchil- dren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; siblings Brother Charlie; and sisters Sue Beaird and Donna McArdle. He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara VanHooser; sons Billy and Larry VanHooser; and sister Sharon Marshall.

A service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, October 4, 2021 at Covenant Funeral Service, Stafford 1310 Courthouse Rd. Stafford, V.A. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Following the service a lunch- eon will be held at Immanuel Baptist Church 11007 Leavells Rd, Fredericksburg V.A. Interment will be at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday October 7, 2021 in Quantico National Cemetery, 18424 Joplin Rd. Triangle, V.A. Please arrive by 1:00 p.m.