Mr. William "Bill" Donald Fulk

William "Bill" Donald Fulk passed away November 5, 2010 at the age of 88. Born Aug. 3, 1922 in Seymour, Missouri, Bill married his childhood friend and sweetheart Dorothy Jean Matney. Together they migrated to the California Coast with their newborn son, Billy J. Fulk. Working in fruit orchards and odd labor jobs, they made their way up the Coast from Southern California until Bill laid eyes on the beautiful coast off Trinidad. He knew then, that this is where he would build and make his home.

Residing in the Greater Trinidad area for 60 years, Bill was loved and admired by many. Known by many as "The Jack-of-All-Trades" and known by family members as "The Caretaker". Bill was kind, good natured, and a genuine individual. If anyone needed something built, he was there. If anyone needed a tool, he had it. If anyone were to break down within the vicinity of his home, be assured they were housed, fed, or helped in some way.

Bill was a retired woodsman and timber-faller for Louisiana Pacific, and at one time owned the fishing vessels Linda Lee II, Miss Trinidad, and currently still owns the fishing vessel The Terron. Well known around the boats docks and by fellow fisherman, one was more likely to here a story about how Jean caught more fish than he. Bill also enjoyed bowling, and was a long time, off and on again, bowler at Harbor Lanes.

Bill was also A Past Master of Six Rivers Lodge No. 106, Free and Accepted Masons of California, a Past Patron of Arcata Chapter No. 207, member of Order of the Eastern Star, a member of the Eureka York Rite Bodies and Knight York Cross of Honor and Scottish Rite. Bill was initiated into the Masonic Lodge in 1973, served as Master in 1981 and 1994, and became a Life Member of the Masonic Lodge in 1992. Notably, Bill earned the Hiram Award in 1997. He was most known for his amazing memory work and for his cooking for the annual crab feed.

Bill was preceded in death by his lovely wife Dorothy Jean Fulk and his son Billy J. Fulk. Bill is survived by his three grandchildren Dennis Fulk, Deborah Fulk, and Midori Fulk.

The family would like to thank his physician and all care workers at Pacific Care Home and especially at Timber Ridge/ Renaissance in Mckinleyville. Services will be held Wednesday Aug. 10, 1PM, at Paul's Chapel in Arcata, CA. Reception to follow at the Arcata Masonic Lodge located 251 Bayside Rd. All who knew and loved Bill are invited to attend. There will be a Viewing for Family members Tuesday Aug. 9, 3-4PM, and for friends 4-7PM.

Memorial contributions may be made in Bill's name to the International Dementia Research Foundation or charity of your choice.

Arrangements under the direction of Paul's Chapel, Arcata, CA 707-822-2445, www.paulschapel.com.