William was a life-long resident of Contra Costa Country. He was born on Easter Sunday, March 31,1929 in Martinez, California. His family lived in the small refinery community known as Avon. As a toddler in the early 1930's, he and his family lived in Japan for two years, where his father worked as an engineer. The Peckham family returned to Avon where William graduated from Mount Diablo High School. He participated in many sports, including swimming. He studied at Santa Clara University before transferring to and graduating from San Jose State University. In 1950, William served his country as a U.S. Marine, serving in the Korean War.
It was during his years at San Jose State that William became interested in aviation and pursued his passion of becoming a licensed pilot. He was one of the earliest corporate private pilots for the Kaiser Corporation. He flew domestic and international flights for various airlines, including Flying Tigers and Slick Airways. He logged many hours in Douglas DC-3s but his favorite plane by far was the Lockheed Constellation, known by its nickname ‘The Connie”. By the 1970's, he set his wings aside to raise his two children.
"Bill" or Byron, as he was known by his family and friends, always had his flight jacket with him and he was always proudly wearing his wings. One would frequently find him during his retirement years at the Oakwood Athletic Club in Lafayette, weightlifting and swimming. His fondest memories were as a member of “The Bill Club” at Oakwood. He actively competed in the US Masters Swimming Association, as did his mother Ella Peckham. He followed professional sports and, for many seasons, attended Oakland A's baseball games with his buddies. For several years, he volunteered with the Walnut Creek police department. He loved Tahoe. One of his favorite competitions was an annual Masters swimming event at Donner Lake. Byron loved sharing stories, articles and journals from his family history. However, his favorite activity was spending time with his entire family. He loved sports cars, having had Porsches, Corvettes and specialized Mustangs. He was well-known in the community for driving his Mustang Saleen 5-Speed to the gym to workout with friends.
William was a beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, uncle and friend. He was predeceased by his son Byron Peckham. He is survived by his daughter Kelly Clohessy, grandchildren Brittany, Ryan, and Catherine, great grandchildren Elijah and Maya; nieces Joan, Carol, Jane, Marin, Claire, Jaime, Blake, nephews Taylor, James, Turner and many friends.
In loving memory of William Byron Peckham. You earned your wings so long ago. Forever our "Fly Boy" and forever flying.
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