William Henry Wood Prince ’36

Billy died at his Chicago home Jan. 22, 1998. Having prepared at Groton, he majored in philosophy and joined Charter Club.

After graduation he progressed well at the First Natl. Bank of Chicago, where, from 1955-87, he was a director. During WWII, he served four years as captain, Field Artillery, and received three commendations and the Bronze Star.

After the war, a cousin, financier Frederick H. Prince, adopted Billy to ensure good management of several large family interests. In 1949 he became chairman of Chicago's Union Stockyard and Transit Co. In 1957 he became president and later chairman of Armour and Co. He was vice-chairman of F. H. Prince Co., a private investment firm, and a longtime trustee of Prince Charitable Trusts. In 1982, President Reagan appointed him to the Grace Commission's survey on government cost control.

A community leader and philanthropist helping arts, educational, and environmental organizations, Billy made a major gift to Princeton's molecular biology project in 1986. He served on the boards of many major corporations. Throughout his career he was recognized for his innovative approach in solving business problems.

Billy is survived by his wife, Eleanor, who was a widow when they married; he adopted her young son Alain. Other survivors are sons Alexander and William N., six grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. He was a man who indeed made his mark in life.