William H. Wilson of Hershey’s Mill

Mr. William H. Wilson of Hershey’s Mill passed away March 18, 2017. William (Bill) and his identical twin, Harry, were born in Lafayette’s Headquarters in Valley Forge, June 26th, 1923, to Charles and Arlene Wilson. Five generations of the family had lived there.

Mr. Wilson graduated from Downingtown High, attended West Chester University and signed up for the cadet program of the U.S. Naval Air Corps. He earned his wings the week World War II ended. He remained in the Reserves and flew one week a month at the Willow Grove Naval Air Station. In 1946 he entered Drexel University where he studied business and law. He graduated in 1949 and went into real estate in King of Prussia. He sold the Maplecroft Dairy property to the developers of King of Prussia Mall. Like the Mall, Bill Wilson’s business grew. His work included the development of two office buildings, several warehouses, a Laundromat, and a rental car agency. Mr. Wilson was a member of the Sons of the Revolution and a charter member of the King of Prussia Rotary Club.

In 1949 he married Corinne Gray who was also a Drexel graduate. Together they designed their dream home on a 50 acre property in Valley Forge. Mr. Wilson also designed and built a beautiful barn with an apartment over three box stalls, a tack room, and a garage for tractors and his beloved pick-up truck.

They had three children: Devon married Jeff Rogers and moved to Atlanta; Kimberly married Rick Cohen and lives in Portland, OR; Amy married Stuart Rogers and lives in Owego, NY. Now there are seven grandchildren and two greatgranddaughters. Bill and Corinne traveled the world. More recently they enjoyed spending winter months on the Costa del Sol in Spain.

Very active in the First Presbyterian Church of Phoenixville, Bill was an elder and served as clerk of Session alongside three ministers. He was a very generous man who helped others when they were in need. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Memorial service is scheduled for 11 am Friday, March 24th at the church on Main Street in Phoenixville.