Stocker Estate Supports Scholarships

Attending U of D was both a personal and family achievement for each of the four Stocker siblings: Cecilia (Stocker) Worrel '47, Robert Stocker '54, Katherine (Stocker) Brady '50 and Joseph William (Bill) Stocker, Jr. '49. Their parents wanted them to have a Catholic education.

When Bill Stocker passed away on Dec. 7, 2011, he had designated part of his estate to Detroit Mercy. As an unrestricted gift, the funds are providing tuition scholarships for Detroit Mercy students.

Earning a Chemical Engineering degree enabled Stocker to become a metallurgist, working at American Metal Products for 35 years. Lear acquired the company in the 1970s and Stocker retired soon after.

Stocker was an accomplished bowler and enjoying traveling and fishing. He and several family members went on a trip to Alaska in recent years. His love of travel began when he ventured on a three-month bicycle tour of Europe with classmate Ken McHugh after graduating in the summer of 1949. A man of many interests, he also liked growing tomatoes and boating.

His sister Cecilia Worrel says that Stocker, brother-in-law Bob Brady '49 and Ken McHugh put together a 50th year class reunion in 1999. About 20 Engineering alumni from that year attended the three-day event that included parties, activities and tours on campus. In commemoration, Stocker and others made a donation to Detroit Mercy that was used to renovate a classroom in the Engineering Building.

Thanks to Stocker's generous estate gift, students today and tomorrow will be able to pursue a Jesuit/Mercy-based education that will serve as a foundation for their careers. It's a cycle of giving that both alumni and students cherish.