Master and Commander
Posts: 1005
Location: NE Florida | Subject: Sunday Obits
Note to All: I can only post the notices of those who my search tool finds. Other places have other sources. Another place where obituaries for submariners is posted is the USSVI Eternal Patrol page on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ussvi.eternalpatrol/
SAPPINGTON .. .. William John Sappington was born April 30, 1959 in San Francisco and passed away unexpectedly September 23, 2023 in Lakeport, CA. He was 64. He is survived by his son, Calvin Sappington, niece, Alana Ludlow, nephew, Daniel Wolfe, friend and co-parent, Jen Bremer, and stepdaughters, Erin McElroy and Tammie Johnstone, as well as a multitude of cousins and friends. At the time of his passing, he was off-roading with friends in rugged terrain, an activity he enjoyed greatly.
Bill spent his early years between Fremont and Lakeport, CA before joining the US Navy at 18. As a sonar technician in a Cold War submarine, Bill traveled the world, crossing the Arctic Circle and spending time throughout Europe and Asia before returning stateside. All the while he built on his technical knowledge in advanced electronics and microcomputing, passions he turned into a successful post-Navy career running his own company for many years and ultimately leading to a position at UC Berkeley.
Bill was a loving and devoted father; the happiest day of his life was the day that Calvin was born. Throughout the years there were family camping trips, sailing adventures, soccer tournaments, annual treks to the rocket launch in the Black Rock Desert, and even a flying expedition down to Baja California to pet whales when Calvin was just four years old. Bill happily acted as the self-appointed "Hausfrau" during ski seasons in Tahoe, cooking warm, mouthwatering meals for friends and family to serve after a cold day on the slopes.
For years, Bill devoted himself to Burning Man every season as a Black Rock Ranger (playa name: Flyingguy). He loved the artistic freedom, human ingenuity, and sense of community represented by this extreme yearly festival in the desert, but mostly he loved assisting people in his role as a Ranger. His weeks in the service of the festival were all volunteer. Later, he helped out wherever there was need at Montclair Elementary School, eventually being awarded the coveted and well-deserved Volunteer of the Year award. Always first to lend a hand, his dedication and selflessness were recognized and appreciated by all those around him.
A free-spirit, Bill lived a very full life. He was fundamentally a people person, making friends out of strangers everywhere he went. Aiding this, Bill was fearless and adventuresome and cultivated many daring pursuits; chief among them were flying, sailing, motorcycle and car racing, rock climbing, skiing and pyrotechnics. He was a talented musician and played guitar and bass in several bands throughout his adult life. Bill had a curious mind and an exceptional memory which enabled him to speak cogently on a vast array of topics, sometimes to the dismay of others.
Though he was taken from us far too soon, he went out on his own terms, on a joy ride with buddies on a beautiful day, something we take solace in.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Arbor Day Foundation to plant a tree in Bill's name would be greatly appreciated.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, October 22nd, 2023 at 1:00pm at The Lakeport Yacht Club, 15 Fifth Street, Lakeport, CA 95453.
ROBERTSON .. .. James Edward Robertson, age 82 of Plymouth passed away on October 6, 2023. He was born on December 5, 1940 in Royal Oak Michigan to Marion Donahoe. James, the dearest husband of the late Bonnie Jean, will be deeply missed by his children: Michael (Susan) Robertson, Dawne Robertson, and Kelly (Chris) Connolly. A loving grandfather to his grandchildren Devon (Chris) Parker, Marin Robertson, Jack Robertson, Brady McWilliams, Elena Robertson, Olivia Connolly, and Ryan Connolly. They will forever cherish the memories they shared with him. James is preceded in death by his brothers Richard and Robert Robertson, and his stepsister Claire Schwartz.
James was the proud owner of Photographic Impressions in Plymouth. With his dedication and passion for photography, he captured countless memorable moments for families and businesses in the area. After years of hard work, James retired about ten years ago, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and creativity in his field. Before his career in photography, James served his country with honor and courage. He proudly served in the US Navy on the USS Andrew Jackson (SSBN-619) submarine. His commitment to defending his nation demonstrated his selflessness and bravery.
Outside of work, James had a wide range of interests and hobbies that brought him joy. He was a past president of the Metro West Steelheaders fishing club, an affiliation of fishermen who shared their love for the sport. In addition to fishing, James loved to travel, garden and dance. He also sang in the church choir for Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Livonia. James Edward Robertson was a man of integrity and generosity who touched the lives of all who knew him. His devotion to his family, entrepreneurial spirit, dedication to service, and passions for fishing, gardening, music, and dance will forever be remembered.
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Sunday Obits
