William (Billy) Houston Minke, Jr., age 69, of Chowchilla, California passed away on Tuesday, March 9, 2021. Billy was born January 17, 1952 in Merced, California to William Minke Sr. and Vera Juanita Minke.
He was raised in Chowchilla and Hollister, California graduating Chowchilla High school in 1970. Billy was drafted by the US Army in 1972. He served as a Marksmen in Fort Ord, Texas.
After being discharged from the Army in 1974 Billy returned back to Chowchilla, California and worked for Fruehauf Trailer Corp. Billy married Charmaine Germain on August 11, 1979 and remained in Chowchilla until 1995. He then moved to Hollister and worked for Pacific Pac Inc for ten years retiring in 2005.
Billy was a motorcycle enthusiast. He particularly loved his Harley-Davidson, Old Red. He enjoyed entertaining friends and family. Always highlighting the Hollister Independence Rally every year.
He returned to Chowchilla in 2019 where he would spend the remainder of his life. Billy took joy in being home and near his family and close friends.
Billy is survived by daughter Mindy Vera Minke, granddaughter Lexi Ann Whatley and grandson Cooper Michael Whatley.
Billy was preceded in death by son Jason Michael Minke, father William Minke, Sr. and mother Vera Juanita Minke.
A graveside will be held Friday, April 16, 2021 at 10:00 am, at Chowchilla Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to help with final expenses via Venmo, @Mindy-Minke or Cashapp, $MindyMinke.
