William (Bill) Henry Morewood, 86, formerly of Pennington, died at Attleboro Nursing Center, Langhorne, Pa., on Aug. 6.
Born in Rosemont, Pa., Mr. Morewood graduated from Haverford School (1939) and Cornell University (1943) with a degree in mechanical engineering. He served in the U.S. Navy as a lieutenant from 1943 to 1946.
His engineering career was highlighted by efforts that introduced laser disk technology, precursor to the CDs and DVDs in use today. Taking early retirement from RCA Sarnoff Research in 1975, he designed and patented the Winsford Feeder, a machine that has enabled many paralyzed individuals to feed themselves.
An active member of New Jersey and Pennsylvania Live Steam engine clubs, his hobby led him to author the book, "Building the Raritan." Live Steam Magazine honored him with a national award to recognize his contribution in promoting the Live Steam hobby.
Son of the late Francis and Caroline Rhodes Morewood and brother of the late Elizabeth Evans, he is survived by his wife of 58 years, Ruth D. Morewood; three children, John Morewood (Patti) of San Jose, Calif., Sharon Schley of Titusville and Kristina Schvejda (Dennis) of North Haledon; two grandsons, Brad Agius (Amanda) of Hampden, Maine, and Stephen Agius (Erin) of Unity, Maine; and a niece and three nephews, who live in Canada.
An 11 a.m. memorial service will be held Aug. 18 at the Pennington Presbyterian Church, 13 S. Main St., Pennington.
Interment will be private in the Pennington Cemetery.
There will be no calling hours.
Memorial contributions in Mr. Morewood’s name may be made to the Salvation Army, Planned Giving Program, Box 160, Corning, N.Y., 14830, or the Pennington Presbyterian Church, 13 S. Main St., Pennington, 08534.
Arrangements are by the Wilson-Apple Funeral Home, Pennington Circle.
For further information or to send a condolence, visit www.wilsonapple.com.
