William Lynn Lowell

Born on November 11, 1945, in Marinette, Wisconsin, the birthplace of both his mother and grandmother. Willie moved to Bakersfield in 1954. He graduated from Bakersfield High School as a proud member of the National Thespian Society. His passion for electronics and stage production began early, working on productions at the Harvey Auditorium during high school. Willie continued his education at Bakersfield College, excelling academically and earning a place on the Dean's List each year.

Willie's career was deeply rooted in the Bakersfield community. He started working in the electronic maintenance department at Bakersfield College while still a student, a role that would evolve into a lifelong profession in electrical engineering. Over more than four decades at the college, he played a key role in major projects such as the construction of Centennial Gardens and the remodeling of the Bakersfield College Stadium. Willie eventually retired as the Senior Electronic Technician but remained a respected figure in his field.

Beyond his work at the college, Willie co-owned Specialized Electronics with his friend Stephen Rice and also worked as an electronic technician and broadcast engineer for the Kern County Superintendent of Schools. Willie's contributions extended to over 50 years of service at times working at the Crest Drive In and the Fox Theater, but his favorite experiences came from his involvement working hundreds of concerts, Condors hockey games and various other events at Mechanics Bank Arena, where he formed deep bonds with colleagues who became like family. In recognition of his dedication, the Arena's Video Production Room was named in his honor–a testament to his impact on those he worked alongside.

Willie's fascination with electronics began in high school when he built his own radios, stereos, computers, amplifiers and component systems. This passion extended into photography and trains–interests that took him across the country to capture images of steam, circus and other specialized trains that he would sometimes submit to railroad periodicals. His love for trains also led him to travel annually by rail from Bakersfield to Chicago in a private car to spend summers with family.

A dedicated member of several organizations, Willie served as treasurer for both the Kern County Rabbit Breeders Association–where he also judged competitions at the Kern County Fair–and the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts. He was also an avid collector of historical railroad and electronics-related books and periodicals. His desire to build things lasted his entire life. He would spend holidays and birthdays with his many nieces and nephews presenting them with numerous boxes of Legos then spending the day helping construct them.

Willie's warmth and generosity left a lasting impression on all who knew him. His knowledge of mathematics and electronics was extraordinary, but it was his willingness to help others that truly defined him. He was fortunate to have many families throughout his life–his birth family, his lifelong friends Greg and Donna Baziuk (who's family considered him "Uncle Willie"), and his extended work family at Mechanics Bank Arena and beyond.

Willie is survived by his brother Donald Lowell and his wife Nancy, sister De Aynne Gomez along with her children and grandchildren; and brother Timothy Lowell with his wife Patty and their children and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents William C. Lowell and Hertha C. Lowell, as well as his brother-in-law Richard "Boscoe" Gomez.

Willie's legacy lives on through the many lives he touched, the friendships he cherished, and the countless contributions he made to his community. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

A private family graveside service to be held on March 14, 2025, at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Bakersfield, California.

A Celebration of Life for families and friends to be held on March 15, 2025 at Woolgrowers Restaurant, 620 E 19th Street, Bakersfield, CA. at 1 PM.