William "Bill" J. Cornell, 77, passed away in his home in Oak View, Calif., January 4, 2013, after a long illness.
Born in Clinton County, Mich., August 28, 1935, Bill grew up in St. Johns and after serving in the U.S. Navy relocated to Ventura County. Working first as a heavy equipment operator and mechanic, Bill then returned to work for the U.S. Navy and spent over 30 years as a civil employee with the Naval Facilities Engineering Command in Port Hueneme, Calif., retiring in 1994 as Program Manager, Construction Equipment in the Civil Engineer Support Office.
His family and friends were the focus of his life and always came first. A 1981 graduate of Ventura College, he valued education and never stopped learning. His interests were wide and varied. From NASCAR, motorcycles and tractors, to astronomy, gardening and food, Bill loved sharing his knowledge and was always ready to lend a helping hand to family and friends. No one ever left his presence empty-handed. A much-loved father, grandfather, uncle and brother, Bill was a true and constant friend to all in his community and will be deeply missed.
Bill leaves behind his three children, Alexis Cornell (Lorraine Baucher), Amy Thomas (Timothy Parnell), and Sean (Diane Billett) Cornell; and four grandchildren, Seth, Tessa, Aidan and Serena. He is survived by brothers, James (Geneva), Harry (Dee), and Bruce (Dorothy) Cornell; and many much loved nieces and nephews. His parents, Glenn and Doris (Crowner) Cornell; brothers, Keith and George; and his sister, Jean preceded him in death.
At his request, no formal services were held. Arrangements are under the direction of the Ted Mayr Funeral Home and Crematory, 3150 Loma Vista Road, Ventura. Condolences may be left at TedMayrFuneralHome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Alexis Cornell and Lorraine Baucher.
Miss you my friend and neighbor, we think of you often
Daniel Garmon
January 5, 2019
You're always in my heart, Dad. I miss you every day. ♥ Alex
January 4, 2019
Love you and miss you Dad. Thank you for always being there for me. Alex
June 26, 2013
Bill was a good neighbor and a great man , I always enjoyed talking about NASCAR and old tractors with Bill he will be missed by all .
Daniel and Irene Garmon
April 4, 2013
Thank you all so much for your kind words and remembrances of our Dad. I miss him more than words can say and your words bring comfort and are deeply appreciated. Alexis Cornell safari23j (at)yahoo(dot)com.
Alexis Cornell
March 30, 2013
Bill was a great friend. I still vividly remember our ride up through Santa Ynez valley and Lompoc and back down through Santa Barbara. He was a great one to ride with as he was so careful. Every Christmas as I cook up his smoked almond recipe Bill comes to mind. He was always there when you needed him and he will be missed but always remembered!
Diane Ellis
March 25, 2013
RIP Bill. It was a pleasure knowing you and working with you at CESO.
Stella Rosenthal
March 25, 2013
Bill was a great guy. Always a pleasure to talk to. Worked with him at Port Hueneme for many years. Sorry to hear of his passing.
Bobby Milligan
March 21, 2013
I enjoyed working with Bill and will never forget his humor and great laugh.
Phil Crow
March 18, 2013
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