William F. Victorine

William “Pop” Victorine was born an only child to Tony and Julia Victorine on August 19, 1928 in Princeton, California. They later moved to Watosnville where he attended Sacred Heart Catholic School. Upon graduation he met the love of his life, the beautiful Ruth Wright. They were married in 1946. Pop’s military career began in 1954 where he served in the Navy and Army. His military career spanned 45 years, culminating in 1979. He retired from the National Guard holding the rank of Master Sergeant and Tank Commander with Company B 149th Tank Battalion. While in the National Guard he also served as a Correctional Officer at Soledad State Prison. In 1964 he transferred to Atascadero, California where he continued as a Correctional Officer at California Men’s Colony Prison. Serving at CMC, Pops eventually advanced to the position of Sergeant. Pop was an active member of the Saint Williams Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. He was also an avid motorcyclist and loved touring the country with Ruthie riding shotgun on the back. They loved meeting new people in their travels who turned into lifelong friends. While playing Santa, his natural white hair & beard would be tested for authenticity by adults and children alike. In 1991, his beloved Ruthie passed after a long illness. Pop was preceded in death by his wife Ruthie and son, Billy. Through his faith and dedication to his Church, in 2005 he married Rosemary Grisanti, who survives him. He is also survived by sons; Kenny Victorine of Atascadero, Jerry (Peggy)Victorine of Atascadero, daughters Sharon (Greg) Toberman of Atascadero, Joan Gibson of Atascadero, Connie (Terry Pierce) Victorine of Northern California, and Kathy Silva of Idaho. Grandchildren; Billy, Kenny, Kristy, Kimberly, Jessica, Nick, Melissa, Billy, Kerrie, Kelly, Jennifer, Loni, Gabriel John and Jeff. He is also survived by numerous great grandchildren and extended family. Pops was such a loving, caring and giving human being. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him. A visitation will be held on December 16th, 2015 at St. William’s Catholic Church from 9:00 a.m.- 10:00 a.m. Rosary will be prayed at 10:00 a.m., and the funeral mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Pop will be laid to rest in the Atascadero District Cemetery following the funeral mass with Military Honors provided. Services are in the care of Chapel of the Roses, Atascadero.