William Rolls

Bill passed away on January 6th after a long battle with Alzheimer's. He left behind his heartbroken best friend and companion of 23 years Donna Cornell, one brother, John, Brother-in-Law Bill Mueller, numerous in-laws and nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his father and step-mother, Robert and Midge Rolls, his sisters Eve and Dorothy, his mother Gertrude and his wife of 39 years, Judy.
Bill was born in Los Angeles and when his family move here when he was 5 Watsonville was his home. He was a proud veteran of World War II having served in the Navy on an Aircraft Carrier. He was a member of the local VFW and served as the Commander from 1960 - 1962. He was also a member of the Honor Guard from until his illness forced him to retire in 2009.
He was a truck driver for over 40 years. "Money Bags" (his CB label) started by delivering bread, then Pepsi until he bought his own Kenworth Semi and hauled for local produce companies to Los Angeles and Washington. His love of driving was evident when he raced his stock car at the Watsonville Race Track for a few years. This passion carried over into love of NASCAR racing.
Bill loved all sports. He was an avid S.F. Giants fan, 49er fan and most Fridays would find him at Spring Hills Golf Course golfing with friends. In fact, it was during a golf tournament in Reno that he met Donna at a Black Jack Table. He was blessed to have found, in Donna, someone who shared all the same interests. They started by spending one week which grew to one month in Scottsdale going to Giants Spring training Games. They also enjoyed the Greyhound races and the Casinos while there.
In addition to the trips to Scottsdale, they enjoyed cruises with friends, going to jazz festivals and dancing. Bill belonged to the local SIRs Chapter in Watsonville and to the Elks Club of Watsonville. His friends and family were only a phone call away. He had a zest for life and a great sense of humor. He was fun to be around and will be missed by those who knew him.
The family would like to thank the love and care that he received at Montecito Manor during his stay there. He was always treated with dignity and for that we are grateful. We would also like to thank Hospice for their support in his final days.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 18th at the VFW Hall at 1960 Freedom Blvd beginning at 11:00. Please come with stories to share about this very special man. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Alzheimer Association, Hospice of Santa Cruz County, the VFW, or a charity of your choice.