Obituary of William R. Carroll

William R. Carroll, beloved husband, passed away on September 28, 2023 at age 75.

William was born on August 15, 1948, in Clinton, IA, to Raymond and Virginia (Olive) Carroll. He received an Associate of Arts degree from American River College in Sacramento, CA, in 1966. He later pursued a Certificate in Mediation from Phoenix University. He wed his life-long partner, Vivian Mary (Gapero) Carroll, 54 years ago.

Following retirement as a trainer for the Census Bureau and as a costumer for regional theatre, including stints with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Combined Shows, Inc.’s Clown College and Circus World, William spent his golden years exploring Native ruins, browsing museums and art galleries, and enjoying theatre, opera, and ballet. He excelled in cooking and gardening. A former producing-director for a California theatre company that encouraged original works written by persons of color, William continued to nurture diversity in the arts through his generous support of student scholarships at the Institute of American Indian Arts. Kind, gentle, and an amazing leader, he arranged trips and speakers for the Cherokee SouthWest Township. He attributed his calmness at the end to his Buddhist path.

William was preceded in death by his parents, a brother and sister. He is survived by his wife, Vivian; a cousin, Diane; and nieces, Karen, Kathy, and Carol. Donations may be sent to Upaya Zen Center or the Robert Wertheim Hospice House.