William Ralph Fields

William R. Fields was born in September 1930 in Mount Holly, New Jersey to Ralph and Elizabeth Fields. He was the eldest of four boys and joined the army as a young teen. At just 17 years old, he traveled across the world to assist with occupation and reconstruction efforts in post-WW2 Japan.

For several years after that, Bill remained active in the U.S. military. He was a member of the U.S. pistol team, a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division and was called to action during the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962.

Bill also served as a sergeant and mortar platoon leader in the Army National Guard, as well as a load master in the Air Force towards the end of his military career. After his service, Bill started working at Wall Rope Works as a foreman and worked his way up through the ranks of the company before retiring.

In his free time, it's no secret that Bill liked to exercise, shoot guns and ride motorcycles-hobbies that followed him throughout his life. He started riding street bikes in the 50s, but didn't purchase his first dirt bike until 1969. He continued riding and watching professional races until late in life, and also loved to sail

boats.

Bill was married twice-once to Verna in 1953, who was the mother of his two children-and a second time to Anne in the mid-90s.

Throughout his long life, Bill never stopped learning new skills, keeping up with old hobbies and tinkering with projects. He loved to make breakfast, tell stories of his life and military career, play the harmonica, look at old family photos and (secretly) eat candy.

After passing away at an impressive 95 years old, Bill is survived by two children, Wayne and Patty, several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his visitation on Monday, December 22nd from 2-3 PM at Perinchief Chapels, 438 High St., Mt. Holly. A memorial service will be held at 3 PM at the funeral home. I