TACOMA, Wash. -- William (Bill) Stanley Cookson of Tacoma, Wash., died from lung cancer Monday, April 12, 2004 at home surrounded by his family. The Cooksons reside at 3014 N. Puget Sound, Tacoma, Wash. 98407.

Bill was an art professor at Westmar College from 1963-1975. He worked for the state of Washington as an investigator from 1975-2000.

Bill was a hero to and beloved by his family. He was a Renaissance man, and a master of many skills. He loved learning and was true to his ideals. His family was the most important thing in his life. "He was the rock we built our life upon. His life and love for us will sustain us," said family members.

He is survived by his wife Martha (McAnelly), sons William J. and James A., daughters Angela Hawkins and Jennifer Kelly, three grandchildren: Haley, Alexander and Lauryn, and brothers Kenneth and Edward.

A Celebration of Bill's life will be held at Mason Methodist Church in Tacoma on Saturday, May 8, and in September a memorial will be held in Arthur, Illinois, Bill's home town.

The family would like to thank the many friends who have helped us, prayed for us, and supported us. A special thanks to Shawn Kelly, Bill's son-in-law, Franciscan Hospice, the J Wing staff at Tacoma General, the staff at Oncology Northwest in Federal Way, Pastor Joe Miller and Mason Methodist Church, and most especially dear Dr. Kasubhai who supported us when there was no hope.