William M Land

1913-2012

William “Bill” M. Land of St. Helena, and lifelong resident of Napa County, passed to his rest at 99-years-old Aug. 27, 2012, in St. Helena, after a full and beautiful life.

Bill was born Feb. 2, 1913, to Clyde and Edith Land and grew up on the family ranch in Napa with his sisters Bethel and Pauline and younger brother Herb. It was here on the ranch in Napa that Bill grew to love the land and outdoors, while appreciating its bounty. His entire life he loved to garden, hunt and fish. He was known as the one to call for anything relating to plants and trees, or just some gardening tricks, and Bill always answered the call with a gentle willingness and hand to lend. Bill’s love for the outdoors and hunting led him to be a long time member of the Pope Valley Hunting Club.

Bill Land met the love of his life, Anita True, in 1934 at a dance hall in Windy Flat, Calif.; they married and made a home in Napa, where they raised their two sons, Raymond and Dennis. Bill worked in the transportation department at the Mare Island Shipyard. After retirement, he and Anita moved to St. Helena, where they found there dream home.

Bill is survived by his son, Raymond (wife Linda) Land of St. Helena; his grandson, Chris Land of St. Helena; and great-grandchildren, Kristin (husband Doug) Butcher of Concord, Sarah Land of Bishop and Suzanna Land of Pacifica.

Bill Land was predeceased by his parents, Clyde and Edith Land; his wife of sixty years, Anita; his siblings, Bethel, Pauline and Herb; and son Dennis.

A celebration of his life will be held at the Morrison Funeral Chapel, 975 Vintage Ave., St. Helena, on Sept. 15, at 3 p.m., followed by a reception at the Seventh Day Adventist Church, 1777 Main St., St Helena, in the Fireside room.