William Harold Florence

July 16, 1925 – June 16, 2018

Bill Florence was born in St. Helens, Oregon and met his wife-to-be Marjorie Webb in grade school.Bill joined the Navy during WWII and served in the South Pacific (Sterling Is.) with the SeaBees. He married Marjorie as the war ended and they had their first son Gregg. Bill returned to the Navy and served aboard the DE Naifeh during the Korean War. Bill and Marjorie moved to Bakersfield in 1954 where their son Mike was born. Bill had a long career in the oilfield service business and started his own successful company, Florence Sales Co. Bill was a Mason and a 32 degree Scottish Rite member. He was also very active in the Kern County Shrine Club Petroleum Division. Bill held a variety of offices within the Petroleum Production Pioneers, including President. He loved to cheer for the Dodgers and always called them “Bums” when they lost a game. The legacy that Bill Florence leaves behind is best captured by his devotion to his wife of 73 years. Marge Florence was the center of Bill’s life and that dedication to her happiness and well-being carried over to his entire family. Bill Florence is survived by his wife Marge, sons Gregg and Mike and their wives Jeri and Lynne: grandchildren Jennifer Haley, Chris Florence, Sarah Gasper and great grandson Maddox Haley. A private service will be held. Bill’s family would like to thank Hoffmann Hospice and especially Anna, Lia and Maria for their compassion and care. The family requests that in lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Hoffmann Hospice addressed in Bill’s memory.