William R. “Bill” Romain, 96, passed away Saturday, Sep. 22, 2012, at McPherson Hospital. Bill was born July 4, 1916, in South Orange, N.J., to Burchard and Mabel (Reid) Romain.

Poor health plagued him until a corrective surgery repaired a chronic condition at the age of 53. With his newfound health, Bill was inspired to begin running, a passion that lasted for decades. In 1986, Bill moved to McPherson, a place he described as a wholesome, friendly, and a dynamic community.

Bill founded the St. Stephen’s Charitable Trust with the vision to financially help disadvantaged youth. This trust, along with the dedicated people he inspired, has positively affected the lives of hundreds by giving them the opportunity to experience activities that would not have been financially possible. Bill was dedicated to serving others, and did so as an anonymous benefactor.

Bill is survived by two nieces, Andrea Winchell of Washington D.C. and Jane LeBrun of Chester, Maine; and a nephew, John F. Romain of Sudbury, Mass. He was preceded in death by his brother, Burchard Romain Jr.

A memorial service was Saturday, Sept. 29, 2012, at Christ Episcopal Cathedral, 138 S. Eighth, Salina, officiated by Father Benjamin Thomas. A reception followed. In accordance with the deceased’s wishes, the body was donated to the University of Kansas School of Medicine. Inurnment will take place at a later date in South Orange, N.J. In lieu of memorials, Bill requested that friends donate a pint of blood to the American Red Cross.

Stockham Family Funeral home is in charge of services. Personal condolences may be posted online at http://www.stockhamfamily.com.