On October 25, 2021 Cdr G. William “Bill” Coffey passed into legend. He leaves behind his wife Anne Fitzpatrick Coffey and five daughters Sharon Coffey Corina (David), Eileen Coffey Peterson (John), Annemarie Coffey, Jean Coffey, and Patrice Coffey Bingham; as well as ten grandchildren and two great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his son, G. William Coffey Jr. Mass to take place on November 16 at St. Luke’s Catholic Church 1980 Hillsdale Rd. followed by interment at Singing Hills Memorial Park in El Cajon, California.
Bill was born on December 23, 1933 in Newtown, Bucks County Pennsylvania and fondly remembered his youth and early education at Malvern Preparatory. After high school, in pursuit of a broader world perspective, he joined the Merchant Marines. Bill studied at Boston College, and graduated in 1959 with a degree in Economics (as the college had not yet formalized the Geology department, Bill’s first choice). In the same year he married Anne, the love of his life, and began his career as an aviator in the U.S. Navy. Flying for the Navy suited Bill’s love of adventure, and took his family across the United States and Europe. After serving faithfully for 21 years, he retired from the armed services and settled in Jamul, California.
Always eager to sate his desire to explore, he embarked with his wife and six children on numerous road trips across the western United States - a tradition he continued with his grandchildren. Heeding the call of the sea, he bought a sailboat in the latter half of his life, happily bringing aboard anyone wishing to spend a day with him sailing the coast of Southern California. Born of family hailing from County Cork, Ireland, Bill walked into the Royal Cork Yacht Club while on vacation with Anne claiming heritage for his beloved boat, the aptly named “Victory Not Prudence”, and walked out as a member.
Being surrounded by his family was Bill’s greatest pleasure and triumph. There is an Irish symbol called the Claddagh that represents Love, Loyalty, and Friendship; Bill Coffey was fierce in each of these elements. His presence could fill the room. Those that knew him will remember his booming laugh, affectionate ribbing, and the twinkle in his intelligent blue eyes denoting both mirth and mischief.
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