William "Bill" F. Hale

May 15, 2015 in San Luis Obispo, CA.

Bill eagerly joined the US Navy at the age of 17 in June 1941, where he traveled the world

fighting for his country. Bill fought in multiple wars including: World War II, Korea and Vietnam.

As a Naval Aviator, Bill served on the USS Essex, USS Randolph and USS Bennington. He

also served two assignments with the British Navy. While fighting for his country Bill earned

many distinguished awards, medals, ribbons and commendations during his 30 year military

career, including the coveted Distinguished Flying Cross.

In 1971, Bill retired from the US Navy as a Lieutenant Commander. Bill flew a total of 87

combat missions. Bill and his family were very proud of his military service.

Upon Bill's retirement from the Navy, he went to work for a Defense Contract Company for 18 years.

This led him and his family to relocate from Virginia to Camarillo, CA. When Bill decided to retire (again)

in 1989 he moved from Camarillo to the small community of Heritage Ranch in Paso Robles, CA.

While at Heritage Ranch Bill devoted himself to ensuring that the community had a proper evacuation

plan in case of an emergency. He was honored with volunteer of the year in 2009 because of his

dedication to the community.

During Bill's retirement he loved to continue to travel all over the United States and world with loved ones.

Bill would hook up his truck and trailer and make the long haul across the United States visiting

different destinations. Bill enjoyed going on cruises, especially the European boat cruises, no matter

where Bill was he would always make a friend or two and share his passion for his country. In 2010,

Bill moved to San Luis Obispo to be closer to his daughter, Kelly and her family. He was diagnosed

with dementia in 2014. While battling dementia, Bill never lost his charisma and was always willing to share a story

about the Navy days.

Bill is survived by his six children, Lois Douglas (Ed), Vera Martin (Mickey),

Bradley Hale (Cheryl), Kathleen Johnson (Jon), Kelly Fontes (Michael), and Kim Smith (Von), twelve

grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

Bill will be laid to rest with a military burial on Friday, May 29, 2015 at 1 pm at

Los Osos Memorial Park & Mortuary. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in

Bill's behalf to the Alzheimer's Association 3480 S. Higuera #120, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401.