William Frederick Revely Jr.

William Frederick Revely Jr. of Costa Mesa, California, 99, passed away peacefully at home on June 30th, 2024. Fred was a California native born on February 2, 1925 in Los Angeles, and raised in Redondo Beach by his parents William Frederick Revely Sr & Louisa Mary Bond Revely – both of Canadian descent. Although Fred had no siblings, he was connected with dozens of aunts, uncles, and cousins in Canada and California.

Fred grew up on the beach and throughout his life he engaged in many occupations involving the sea, beginning with his 15-year tenure as an LA County Lifeguard stationed at 22nd St Tower in Hermosa Beach. He was hired at the age of 17 becoming the youngest guard on staff. He also competed and placed in local aquatic races including the Judge Taplin Lifeguard Medley Relay and Paul Matthies Dory Race in. Both are now a part of the International Surf Festival held annually in Hermosa Beach. As a young boy, if Fred wasn’t at the beach and surfing, he was working a paper route, tending to the animals his parents raised on their property, visiting extended family in Canada, and joining his father at events as a member of the Royal Arch Masons in Redondo Beach.

Upon graduating from Redondo Union High School in 1943, Fred was drafted to serve in WWII. He served in a non-combat role with the 140th Battalion US Naval Sea Bees (aka CBs – Construction Battalion). During Fred’s 3-year service in the Navy, he was stationed in the South Pacific for 21 months until the end of the war.

After being discharged from the Navy, Fred studied at UC Berkely and graduated from USC with a degree in Business Management (Industrial Management). While attending college he was a walk-on player for USC Football, a proud member of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity, and a powerhouse as Seat 6 of USC’s inaugural 8-man Crew Team. Following college Fred worked for Metlox Manufacturing Company, eventually becoming Chief Industrial Engineer. However, he realized his heart was drawn to investing, and, in 1959, he joined Paine Webber Jackson & Curtis as a Stockbroker. In 1976, he shifted his focus to Real Estate Investing. By 1990 he was semi-retired from actively managing his rental properties and focused his energy on trading in the stock market. His love and passion for analyzing and picking stocks kept him mentally acute his entire life – making trades even in his final weeks.

Fred married Margaret “Peggy” George of Greensburg, PA on February 19,1955 at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church in Redondo Beach, California. Fred & Peggy had four children: Markie, Bill (aka William Frederick III), Paula & Meg. The family lived briefly in Torrance before moving to Seal Beach. Eventually, in 1970, the family settled and remained in Newport Beach. At the age of 80 Fred married Dori Thomas (also 80) and they settled in Huntington Beach. Their years together included ballroom dancing, international travel, and membership at the American Legion & Elks Lodge.

His involvement in retirement didn’t end there. Fred was a proud member of the LA County Lifeguard Alumni Association. It brought him joy to connect with friends from his early years as a Guard. And, in 2001 Fred was inspired to join the US Coast Guard Auxiliary after the events of 911. Fred served with honor and distinction. He was recognized for his commitment and was proud to be an officer of the organization carrying out the mission of the US Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Fred loved the ocean – being in it, on it, around it, and talking about it. He was passionate about real estate, analyzing stocks and sharing his perspective on the markets. He had such pride and love for his family. Fred loved talking with us and about us. If he had his way, Fred would be talking and chatting his way through 100 years of age, but sadly it wasn’t meant to be. Cheers to a full 99 years Dad!! We will forever miss your love and presence!!

Fred is survived by his children - Mary (Ray) Cullen, Bill (Martha) Revely, & Meg Brand; his grandchildren - Sarah (Patt) Johnson, Betsy (Mark) Weaver, Laura (Brad) Smith, Spencer (Sara) Revely, Jackie Brand, and Katharine Brand; his great grandchildren – Lindi, Asher, Stuart, Ford, Will, Kit, Barnaby, George, John, Liam (William Frederick V), Maggie, and Colette; as well as his Nephew Bart Hamilton and family.

Fred is predeceased by his beloved daughter Paula, his cherished wife Peggy, his grandson and namesake Will (William Frederick IV), his second wife Dori Thomas, and his nephew Paul Hamilton.

Private services will be held Friday July 12, 2024 at Pacific View Memorial Park in Corona del Mar. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution in honor of Fred to a charity you're most passionate about.