William James Wilson

Bill passed away in Fremont, Ca. on October 9, 2018 at the age of 102. He was born on June 16, 1916, in Planada, Ca. and graduated from Le Grand High School in 1934. He was the owner of Wilson’s store in Planada from 1944 until 1969. After his retirement, he and his wife Lucille, lived in Pinole, Morro Bay and Selma. He has resided in Fremont, Ca. for the past 11 years.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, James and Nettie Wilson; sister Ruby Sharmer, and his beloved wife of 65 years, Lucille. He is survived by his sons, James of Fremont, Ca., William of Zwolle, La. and Robert of Friendswood, Tx.; his daughter Diane Stewart of Selma, Ca.. He is also survived by 9 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren and 5 great great grandchildren.

Bill was a member of the Yosemite Lodge #99 in Merced, Ca. and he was also a Master Mason for 74 years. He was an outstanding athlete in High School; playing football, basketball and baseball. Believe it or not, he played football without a helmet and there was a jump ball after each basket made. An accomplished marksman with pistols and rifles, Bill won numerous shooting awards, including the Valley Shooting League Championship several times in the 1950’s and 60’s.

We will remember our father as a kind and caring man who was always willing to help others. His honesty and integrity was beyond reproach and he was admired and respected by all who knew him. He loved his family and was always supportive when a family member needed his help. Bill was the embodiment of the character, fortitude and spirit of our country’s greatest generation.

Graveside services will be held at the Merced District Cemetery, Merced Ca., on Saturday, October 20, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. Remembrances may be made to Hinds Hospice, 2490 W. Shaw Ave., Suite 101, Fresno, Ca. 93711. Bill was extremely appreciative of the wonderful care and comfort this organization provided during Lucille’s journey to her final resting place.