MEESE, William Eugene On October 3, 2017, William Eugene Meese, of Modesto, CA, peacefully passed away at the age of 92. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Elizabeth, wife, Laronda Meese, and son James Meese Sr. William is survived by his son, William Meese Jr. of Crescent City, CA, and daughter, Geraldine Gillease of Modesto, CA. He leaves behind six grandchildren: Kelly Gillease, James Meese Jr, Kevin Gillease, Ashley Meese, Sarah Willard, and Matthew Ruiz, as well as 6 great-grandchildren.William was a graduate of East High School in Youngstown, Ohio and graduated with a BA and then Master degree from Fresno State University, where he played halfback on the football team. He served in the Navy during World War II as a Chief Petty Officer on submarines in the Pacific. William had a long and distinguished career in public education in California, first as a high school teacher, then principal and ultimately retiring from a long tenure as Maricopa Unified School District's Superintendent of Schools. He inspired his daughter Geraldine, son James and granddaughter Ashley to pursue careers as public school teachers. Known affectionately as "Wild Bill", he was an avid player of cards and games who loved to solve puzzles, watch Westerns and cheer on the San Francisco Giants. In retirement he was an active volunteer with the Ceres Police Department and the St. Vincent de Paul Society. He also enjoyed traveling throughout the U.S. and Canada by RV with the Golden Bear Winnies club and was often joined by his family.
His sharp wit and spirit will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him. There will be a rosary service Wednesday, October 11th at 6pm at Lakewood Funeral Home in the Riverside Chapel. Memorial Mass will take place at St Joseph's Catholic Church in Modesto, CA on Thursday, October 12th at 9:30 am. Memorial contributions can be made in his memory to the Giants Community Fund.
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