William Arthur Gothard

battle with COPD and CH, which he bravely fought for over twenty one years. Bill was a

true warrior, determined to live his life with his trusty oxygen tanks in tow. He was

determined to not let his COPD beat his goal of living the best life he could, and still

enjoy his hobbies. Bill enjoyed family vacations by the ocean in La Jolla, as well as

camping and fishing. He enjoyed taking day trips to zoos, amusement parks and

especially SeaWorld with family. He enjoyed visiting his wife's and daughter's

classrooms, visiting with the students. Bill would host many holiday gatherings with

family and friends at his home, and proudly prepared family recipes.

Bill was a Vietnam veteran, and served his country in the United States Marine Corp.

Semper Fi! The aftermath of the Vietnam War remained with him throughout his life, but

he had much family support to help him through this.

Bill was born on July 25, 1949, in Inglewood, California to Lawrence J. Gothard and

Caroline L. Gothard, both deceased. He had one brother, Lawrence J. Gothard, also

deceased. He lived in California all of his life, except for when his father was stationed

in Hawaii with the United States Navy.

Bill leaves behind his loving wife of 49 years, Jean Ann Gothard (Aslanian). They were

planning to celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary on July 6, 2024 and planned on

reliving many wonderful memories of the past fifty years, in addition to the three courting

years prior to being married. They were completely devoted to each other. Together

they have experienced so many wonderful memories, which will forever remain.

Bill leaves behind his beloved daughter, Renee' B. McAnulty (Gothard) and her

husband, Brandon M. McAnulty, who he cherished immensely and were devoted to. Bill

also leaves behind their two children, Ariel C. McAnulty and Branson Paul McAnulty,

who he was so proud of and supportive of both grandchildren's musical and theatrical

careers. He proudly watched their recitals, plays and productions over the years and

attended almost every one of them. "Abba" will be watching them both achieve their

future career goals in the Music/theater industry.

Bill also leaves behind his beloved son, Will Gothard (Billy) and his wife Shelly Gothard

(Sieh) and their child, Lucas J. Gothard, who he also cherished and was devoted to. Bill

was proud of Billy's accomplishments growing up and was thrilled upon realizing his

grandson Luke's sporting/athletic abilities. "Abba" will be watching his grandson, Luke,

fulfill his dream of being a professional baseball player.

Bill will be sorely missed and the world is a better place with him being a part of it.

Services will be held at Riverside National Cemetery on April 30th at 11:00 a.m.