William Dougan Rockey's Obituary
William D. Rockey died on January 9, 2024 after a brief illness. He was born in 1957 to Gordon K. and Alyce V. Rockey in Grand Haven. Bill was raised in Spring Lake on Lloyds Bayou and graduated from Spring Lake High School in 1975.
Bill worked in the field of marine electronics and repair for his entire working career. He owned and operated Marine Electronic Solutions, LLC until his death.
Bill was known for his kindness to everyone, vast knowledge and perfectionism regarding all things electronic, dedication to his many beloved customers, and sparkling good humor. Bill was happiest on the water and knew every port from Chicago to Charlevoix to the St. Mary’s River and beyond. He enjoyed driving through Michigan in his Ford truck, walking barefoot on the beach, and watching Lions football. Bill had a passion for marksmanship and was a longtime member of the Tulip City Rod & Gun Club.
Bill treasured spending time with family and especially loved watching his grandson play sports. He is survived by the love of his life, Terri Kinney, his dearly loved daughter Rebecca Rockey, adored son Joseph Rockey, most precious grandson Bentley Zavala, and five siblings: Larry (Linda) Rockey, Colleen (Craig Christilaw) Rockey, Bruce Rockey, James (Maria) Rockey, and Daniel (Tifenn) Rockey along with four nephews and two nieces.
Friends are invited to visit with the family from noon to 2 p.m. on Thursday, January 18, 2024 at the Spring Lake Sytsema Funeral Home, 213 E. Savidge Street, and attend a Celebration of Life Memorial Service for Bill at 2 p.m. For those desiring to make a memorial contribution to a fund in lieu of sending flowers, please consider
The Pier Safety Fund at the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation (please make checks payable to GHACF and include “Pier Safety Fund” in the memo line--online contributions may be made at www.ghacf.org) or Feeding America West Michigan--online contributions may be made at www.feedwm.org
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