A respected member of the Walnut Creek community, Bill, a former planning commissioner, passed away on June 25 at the age of 83. Raised in Berkeley, he pursued his undergraduate studies at Stanford University before serving as a 1st lieutenant in Army Intelligence in Washington, D.C. During his military service, he notably assisted the Secret Service during President Kennedy's inauguration in 1960.
After returning to California, Bill attended the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned his law degree and met his wife, Pat. The couple moved to Walnut Creek, where they raised three children and celebrated 49 years of marriage. Bill began his legal career at the County District Attorney's Office in 1965 before establishing his own law practice, from which he retired in 2002.
Bill's commitment to public service was evident throughout his life. He was first appointed to the Walnut Creek Planning Commission in 1972, where he played a pivotal role in the development of the downtown core area plan. He later served as chair of the commission and was also president of the Mount Diablo Bar Association. In retirement, he dedicated his time to various community organizations, including volunteering at John Muir Hospital and Loaves and Fishes.
He is survived by three children, seven grandchildren, a brother, and his beloved companion of nine years. Bill's contributions to his community and his dedication to public service will be remembered by all who knew him.