William (Bill) was born in Chicago Illinois on February 4, 1933. Bill attended and graduated from Chicago Vocational High School after which he enlisted in the US Air Force during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in 1955 and attended The University of Illinois receiving a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Bill’s career was quite extensive with over thirty years of highly diverse experience as Manager of Engineering/Project Manager/Construction Services Manager/ Project Engineer and Mechanical Process Engineer. Bill was a Registered engineer by professional examination in California, Michigan, Kentucky, Colorado and West Virginia.
Bill married Virginia Castellano in 1953 and was the proud father of sons Brad, Duane and daughter, Laureen. Subsequently, Bill and Virginia divorced. Bill’s son Duane and his wife Rhonda gave birth to two grandchildren, Dalton and Tiana, Duane’s previous marriage brought twin brothers Darrell and Garrett into our world. Bill’s daughter, Laureen, and her husband Terry Pruitt gave birth to two boys, Jake and Cody. All of Bill’s Family reside in the greater Denver Colorado area.
On April 14, 1987 Bill met Grace Johnson on a Saturday afternoon in Denver, Colorado and soon began a loving relationship. Subsequently, Grace was transferred to San Ramon, California while working for Chevron Oil Company. In 1988 Bill left the Engineering firm, Stearns Catalytic in Denver and accepted a position with Fluor Daniel in the Bakersfield office. Grace was transferred to Bakersfield where they continued their relationship, and were married in June of 1993 where soon after both embarked on overseas projects for Fluor Daniel until Bill’s retirement in 1998.
Bill leaves behind his Son’s, Bradley Linkus, Duane Linkus (Rhonda). Grandchildren Darrell (Kailey), Garrett, Dalton, and Tiana. His daughter Laureen Pruitt (Terry). Grandchildren Jake, Cody (Lauren). And Great Grandchildren Carter and Cadence. His step daughter Rebecca Brynjulson (Kirk). Grand children Brook (Justin), Beau (Stephanie) and Breanna (Dylan). Great grandchildren Austin and Anie.
He will be greatly Missed
A graveside service for William will be held Wednesday, December 15, 2021 at 1:00 PM. Hillcrest Memorial Park and Mortuary, 9101 Kern Canyon Road, Bakersfield, CA 93306.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hillcrestmemorial.com for the Linkus family.
