William Arthur Lefever

William Arthur Lefever, 67, passed away on May 19, 2026. Born on November 29, 1958, Bill lived a life marked by steady devotion to faith, family, and honest work, and he will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude. Bill was a resident of Escondido, California.

From an early age, Bill understood the value of effort and responsibility. He began working at just 12 years old, mowing lawns and taking on odd jobs—an early reflection of the diligence that would define his life. He grew up in Northbrook, Illinois, where as a teenager he loved working on cars and found both discipline and camaraderie swimming on Glenbrook North’s Swim Team.

Bill built a remarkable career as an electrician for 45 years. He received his training in Illinois from Joe Ellwanger, learning a trade he would carry with pride and purpose throughout his life. After moving to California, he worked for Paramount Electric and Gould Electric before taking the bold step of starting his own business. Ten years ago, he founded Lefever Electric, a testament to his perseverance, skill, and the quiet confidence of someone who believed in doing things the right way.

In 1977, Bill began dating Julie, the love of his life. They married in 1979 and moved to California in 1980, building a home rooted in commitment and care. Their son, Christopher, was born in 1984, and their daughter, Michelle, in 1987. Bill loved his children deeply and took great pride in them. On their 40th anniversary, Bill and Julie renewed their vows on an Alaskan cruise—an enduring symbol of the devotion that shaped their marriage.

Outside of work, Bill found joy in the outdoors and in the simple, meaningful moments that become a family’s most treasured memories. He loved fishing in both saltwater and freshwater and spent many summers fishing Marlin Tournaments with Chris and friends. He also loved camping, working on Model A’s and old cars, and—most of all—spending time with his grandkids. In recent days, he was building a train track in the yard for the grandchildren to ride, a project that reflected his gentle spirit and his instinct to put others first.

Bill gave generously of himself to his community and to the next generation. He served on the Board of Associated Building Contractors and mentored many young men as they became electricians, offering guidance with patience and steady encouragement. His faith was central to his life; he was involved with Cursillo and prayed weekly with a group of men from the Catholic community. Through his strong faith and consistent example, he blessed others simply by showing up, helping, and believing.

A kind and soft-spoken man, Bill was always willing to help anyone in need. He worked hard, rarely sat still, and found it difficult to slow down—one reason semi-retirement never fit him easily. Yet even in constant motion, there was a gentleness in how he carried himself and a steadfast devotion in how he cared for the people around him.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to all family and friends who have been there to lean on during this difficult time.

He is gone too soon.

Bill’s guiding words remain a lasting tribute to the life he lived: “Live by the Golden Rule. Faith, Family and Work Hard.”

“Have a Blessed Day.”