EDEN, N.C. -- Longtime Karastan sales executive William "Bill" Roach died on June 26, 2019 at Grand Strand North Hospital in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, after a long battle with cancer. He was 75.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 13, at Fair Funeral Home Chapel in Eden.
Roach retired from his position as regional vice president of national accounts at Mohawk Industries' Karastan division on February 1, 2019 after 55 years of service to the company. He was recognized by the company in 2007 as a "billion-dollar man" who had accumulated sales exceeding $1 billion as a 44-year veteran. At the time, he told RugNews.com: "Karastan has been good to me. My travels, experiences and the relationships I've built over the years are memories I cherish. I am proud to represent Karastan and will continue to offer this company my very best."
A resident of North Myrtle Beach, and formerly of Georgetown, Delaware, Roach was born in Reykjavik, Iceland to the late William Gerald and Hildur Ketilsdottir Roach. He is survived by his wife, Penney; sons John (Brenda), Lenny, and Steve; grandchildren Tabitha and Chris; and sister, Judy (Don) Marshall. He was preceded in death by his parents and his first wife, Ann.
Roach was an avid UNC Tarheel fan. He loved NASCAR, the Steelers, motor-cross, and golf (especially on his beloved Rehoboth Beach Country Club course), a day on the beach, cruising in his "Heels" golf cart, and gathering with friends and family. He was a 32nd Degree Mason.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made in Bill's memory to the Leaksville Volunteer Fire Department c/o Chuck Yarbrough, 146 Beddingfield Rd., Eden, NC 27288. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.fairfuneralhome.com.