CHRISTOPHER – William "Bill" Doctorman was born Nov. 18, 1927, in Christopher to Owen and Ruby (Willis) Doctorman and died Nov. 22, 2016, in Herrin.
He lived a full and productive life, even though he was paralyzed from a bullet that pierced his spine in a hunting accident when he was 16 years old. He was then home-schooled.
Bill spent time repairing televisions and radios and became a HAM radio operator until he went to Kabot-Kaiser Institute in Santa Monica, California, a rehabilitation complex for polio and paraplegic patients. It was there, seated in a wheelchair, that he met Margaret Flynn, also in a wheelchair, who had been diagnosed with infantile paralysis. They fell in love and, despite some misgivings from family and friends as to how they would manage, they were married July 23, 1955, in St. Mary Magdalen Church in Camarillo, California, where they made their home. Their wedding was covered by local and national press.
Bill worked full time at the Point Mugu naval facility for 20 years. After retirement, with Bill at the wheel of his hand-controlled car (controls designed by his dad soon after his accident), they made summer round-trips to Christopher, trips to other parts of the country, and in 1982 went on a Caribbean cruise.
He was a past president and active member of the Lions Club and a strong supporter of the Boys and Girls Club.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; and two sisters, Dorothy Crnokrak and Shirley Gersbacher.
Survivors include his brother, Dean Doctorman and wife Sue of Ullin; special caregiver, Gloria; many nieces, nephews and other relatives; and a host of friends.
Bill led a very full life with no complaints and always with a positive attitude. He was truly an inspiration to all who knew him. He is already missed.
Visitation was from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 27, in Gilbert Funeral Home in Christopher. Burial was in Santa Clara Catholic Cemetery in Oxnard, California, where he was laid to rest next to his loving wife.
For more information go to www.gilbertfuneralhomes.com.
