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William R. Walker, 48, of San Jose, Calif., drowned on July 3, 2010, at Monastery Beach, Carmel, while trying to rescue two women and a child who had been swept out into the surf.
162 Entries
You took your own life giving life to two others who are complete strangers. May your soul rest in peace and may God give the strength to your family to get on with this loss.
Vijay
September 13, 2011
I worked with Bill many years ago. He was always very kind and fun loving, an all around great guy. My deepest sympathies to his family.
Barbara Caldwell
September 22, 2010
We've made it a whole month without you, Bill. We miss you. Rest in peace.
August 3, 2010
To the Walker family, my prayers to you on this sadness you are having to endure. May GOD's LOVE, STRENGTH, AND PEACE find you. It was a brave thing he did something not many will do for strangers, I pray the family is appreciative of the sacrifice he did. He is with GOD now. May he RIP.
Newton
August 1, 2010
I met Bill several times during my work in electronics. He was a very warm and approachable person. I was shocked and very saddened to hear of his passing and wish the Walker family, his coworkers and friend, and Barbara my sincere condolences. His bravery that day came from within, a truly unselfish man, indeed a hero. May the fond memories of Bill provide solace to all.
Greg
July 26, 2010
I met Bill 2007 he was a great boss. My condolences to Walker family. Rest in peace Bill.
olga Sandoval
July 22, 2010
I just heard about Bill and was shocked but not surprised. He was a gentle and kind soul who gave his life to help others ! After knowing Bill how could anyone be surprised at his actions he could not do otherwise it was in his nature to help people.
Rest in peace my good friend and I am sure that there is a special place for you in heaven !
Paul Lamarche
July 20, 2010
The day Charlie knocked on our door to tell us of Bill's drowning was one of the saddest days I can remember. Bill was a fine young man, a man any parent would be proud of. Only the grace of God can see his earthly family through this time of devistation. God has promised never to leave us, carrying us as we falter in this world. Bill, you are now at a place of perfect peace. Our love and prayers are with your family.
The Neves Family
July 19, 2010
My dearest family... Let us draw our strength from father(Jesus). Let him embrace you and give you comfort. For he see's each tear shed and knows your pain. Billy rests in the presense of our Lord. A new life awaits him. One that is filled with unbelievable love and beauty. Renew your faith in Father it will bring you comfort and peace. Billy's spirit lives in you and through you. He will always be with you. My love and prayers are with each of you.
Renee' Veitch
July 19, 2010
My thoughts and prayer are with you.
Cindi Pasquini
Cindi Pasquini
July 18, 2010
Nice guy, professionally reliable and attentive, big enthusiast of golf, suddenly left us in heroic action while rescuing others
Andrew Zachoszcz
July 14, 2010
Rest In Peace Bill. You put the need of others above your own safety. What a HERO. I am honored to have known you.
Tony Paulo
Tony Paulo
July 13, 2010
It has been many years since I last met Bill, but my memories of him were always positive. Such a loss--my condolences to his family and friends. John Greene (Placerville, CA)
July 13, 2010
Bill, what a tragic loss. We will miss you. I am blessed to have known you. Thank you for everything you did for me at silitronics. Not very many men like you left.
Pat Hatmaker
July 12, 2010
David, Christine and family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you.....
Jim & Kim Carson
July 12, 2010
our prayers and hearts go out to the Walker family. we always knew Bill was a good guy, and now we will know him as a Hero,that word will forever be coupled with his name.
Paul and Cindee Pieretti
July 11, 2010
My condolences to the family. Bill's high school friends posted this sad news on Facebook. We have Bill's senior school picture - http://tinyurl.com/2c54tc2 and are looking for other pictures of him. Much love to those who knew him.
Kherry McKay
July 11, 2010
Bill you are true hero and a great boss! I'm so grateful to have a kind, thoughtful, and understanding boss like you for the past 16 years. I passed by your office to say good bye every day before I leave. I can't believe today is really last good bye I say to you Bill. You will be sadly missed. Rest in peace.
Connie
July 10, 2010
Billy, you have always been a part of the Lang's extended family. Though we haven't seen you in a while, your name always comes up in our "Remember when", talks. Rest in peace Billy, you will be in our hearts forever.
The Langs
Lang Family
July 10, 2010
I had the fortune of meeting Bill about 4 years ago while working at a company in San Jose and he was always there to help whenever I had questions. I would honestly say that he was a very kind and caring person who always had a smile on his face. He was a true gentleman and will be missed. My deepest sympathies to all his family and friends.
Flora Moreno
July 10, 2010
Dear Uncle Bill,
You are our HERO, you are our ANGEL, we loved you and we missed you.
Richie and Royce, San Jose, California
July 10, 2010
My brother Bill, as I sit here on a quiet Saturday morning trying to comprehend all that I've read in your story, I'm stunned, shaken with sadness. I've known Bill for 20 years, although I haven't seen him in the past few. I used to repair assembly equipment for him at Silitronics and I know how much he was loved and respected there. He always made me feel appreciated... I golfed with him once too and we would talk about sports, current events, etc. He was such a nice person, and I don't say that lightly. Your act of bravery is immeasurable Bill, I'm both amazed and saddened. Wish I could go on and on about what a great friend you were, suffice it to say I will miss you brother Bill, and I hope your family recovers soon from this incredible tragedy. I hope when my time on earth ends that I will see you again, because that will mean that I somehow was able to come close to living the wonderful life that you did my brother.
Amen
Love, Albert
Albert Mangini
July 10, 2010
Ellen Shen
July 10, 2010
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
John Wyant
July 10, 2010
One of the most influential people in my life.God has a special place for you.You have a special place in my heart.Bill we are deeply going to miss your kindness,thoughtfullness,your understanding,your humor and especially your smile.Just your smile is all we needed to get through the day.Thank You for all you have done for all of us.I thank God for giving me the opportunity to cross paths with such a beautiful person;inside and out.Thank you for being You...
Lupe Gonzales
July 9, 2010
As a young man I can remember going and spending time with my older cousins, Billy and Ronnie. They always took that small amount of time to make sure that my brothers and I had a smile on our faces doing the simple things. Throwing a football on Thanksgiving morning or traveling across the bay to watch the Giants and the Athletic's play on the sameday. Little did I know as a young man how fortunate I would be to have a loving cousin who took the time to complete the circle I call family. Memories I have of the past are now stories for the future I can share with my children of these selfless amazing men I will speak of. "Sometimes we question whether or not our Father (Jesus) is touching our lives because things don't alway's seem easier, we must not waiver in our faith. Sometimes we cannot see his hand is work. Prayer and staying close to him will allow us to have that peace in our hearts that only he can give. The confidence to move forward knowing our lord has control. Surrender your fears and walk with faith my children" A small prayer from my loving mother that has become so relevent in our families lives. Our gods hand is at work. He brought a walking angel into our lives. You will be greatly missed Billy, but I have faith that our lords hand is at work and this is only the beginning of your work as a angel and therefore in our lives forever. We love you Billy. May your selfless act continue to touch us all. You are a great inspiration to our family, may we all live in your shadow.
Shane Cantu
July 9, 2010
Bill has always been a good friend and boss to my dad for the past 30 years. I've only met Bill once but feel like I've known him most of my life because my dad always talked about him. He said he was a good man who would do anything to help someone out. Bill is a true hero and will always be remembered as one. My heart felt condolences to all his family and friends for their loss.
Liana
July 9, 2010
Uncle Bill,
I think that you are a very brave man to risk you're life for others. That shows that you are a very unselfish person to do so! I wish I can be more like you! I love you and will miss you very much!!
Hannah Duarte
July 9, 2010
One of the most influential people in my life.God has a very special.place for you.You have a special place in my heart.Thank you Bill for all the help you have given all of us.We will deeply miss your kindness,thoughtfulness,your understanding,your humor and especially your smile.Just your smile is all we needed to get us through the day. I thank God for giving me the opportunity to work for such a beautiful person ,inside and out. You are a true hero!
Lupe Gonzales
July 9, 2010
Bill,
We never met you but we were on the beach 5:45 July 3rd. You were an amazing unselfish person. I will never forget how quickly everything changed on that peacful beach. Our condolences to your family and friends.
Carol and Jay Walnut Creek
carol goldman
July 9, 2010
Dear Barb,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your loss. Although we never met Bill your Dad and Cheryl had told us how pleased they were that you had finally met a great guy. In reading the accounts of this tragic accident - he proved himself to be a true HERO.
We are really sorry for your loss.
Please extend our condolences to his family.
Bill and Rita
July 9, 2010
Bill,
It has been a wonderful experience to have worked with you for fourteen years. You are a great boss and an understanding person. You cheered us up when we had tough times. You are a true hero in our hearts here at Silitronics. We will never forget you.
Mai Nguyen
July 9, 2010
Bill,
For the last 4 years, I come to work and walk past your office, the one always with the lights on; I give you a wave or a nod, and you always say hey. Now that office next to mine is dark. Your office seems to draw people in for a discussion or a chat, even if it was talking about your Nikon D80, or the server. It was never the office, it was your smile and assurance that Bill was there. Bill, you did good. Sure am proud and honored to have worked with you. Missing you is an understatement. God Bless.
Tat
July 9, 2010
Barbara and the Walker Family: We are so very sorry for your loss. If only we had the words to take away the pain. I feel I have lost out by not knowing this great man. Let him live on through your memories and stories. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Aunt Paula/Uncle Marty Olson
July 9, 2010
Bill,
Everytime I see you , Your wearing a smile. What a pleasant person. You will be missed.
Fred
July 9, 2010
Dear Bill,
I am not fortunate to have known you and is just a Mercury News reader. But your story touched my heart and I hope you will rest in peace knowing that two will live. God bless a HERO.
Gina H.
July 9, 2010
Dearest Bill,
What a selfless act, you gave up your life so that two would live. This does not surprise me, after having worked with you for 5 years and having known you...anything less would simply not be you.
HERO may you rest in peace.
Terri Baldwin
July 9, 2010
Dear Bill,
In the short 4 months that I was fortunate enough to get to know you, I was able to see what a wonderful, loving and caring person you were. May your good soul rest in peace and may the almighty give your family the strength and courage that they need now.
Swarna
July 9, 2010
I worked with Bill for many years he was a very delightful person, I'm not surprised by his act of heroism he always had a heart of gold. I will truly miss him, my deepest sympathy to the family.
Laurie Karson
July 9, 2010
It doesn't surpise me that Bill did what he did. I have known Bill for over 10 years and shared and office next to him for much of that time. He was always willing to help and didnt hesitate to offer assistance. His act of heroism was Bill Walker at his finest. Go in peace Bill and God bless you, your family and those who love you.
Bob Saiz
July 9, 2010
Sorry for the loss of such a good person.
Brian
July 9, 2010
I came across this story by accident this morning. I had tears in my eyes reading about your family member William R. Walker, a genuine man with heart and soul. How proud the parents must be to have raised such a fine American. May he rest in peace and may the family find some comfort knowing he was doing something special to help someone else. I am certain the 2 lives he saved will forever be changed having brushed his soul that day. My heart goes out to the Walker family today, even though I do know know them.
Stephanie
July 9, 2010
The word hero is bandied about fairly lightly these days. Not in this case though. William you truly were an American Hero in the best and strictest sense of the word.
Jeffrey Price
July 9, 2010
You are a true hero, A thoughtless act that is so rare these days. RIP and God be with you and your family.
Stacy
July 9, 2010
I am sorry to say I was at this beach when this tragedy occurred. My husband and I were hoping against hope that there would be a happy ending to this story. What you did was a brave and selfless act that few others would have done. My deepest condolences to your loved ones.
Penny B
July 9, 2010
you are in my prayers, you are a hero!
July 8, 2010
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Darling Fischer Chapel of the Hills
July 8, 2010
Bill is my cousin and my HERO. I will miss him dearly. I shall share his courageous story with my future children. Rest in Peace cousin Billy.
Kelsy Metzler
July 8, 2010
Bill! What a great man you are! TRUE HERO! You will be miss by all of us @ Si2
Rest in Peace...............
Duc Le
July 8, 2010
Wow what a HERO what a good man. Parents raised him good loving caring, Never met him but you could just feel it as you read the news clipping. Much love to the family. God Bless you all your family is our prayers.
The Nichols
July 8, 2010
***HERO***
July 8, 2010
"The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy." -- Martin Luther King, Jr.
I'm sadden to hear a life was lost while saving others, I cannot imagine how his family & girlfriend feels. I hope it brings comfort to know Bill died as a hero. As MLK says, Bill was challenged and his true colors showed, even though it cost his life. His actions demonstrated bravery when most people may dismiss the drowning family and claim it's not their responsibility. His actions may not have been the outcome his family prefers but it's one that Bill could be at peace with.... rather than if he had not acted at all.
I hope Bill's family & friends can find peace & comfort soon. It's never easy to lose someone close to you ...
Shelley
July 8, 2010
RIP
Jean
July 8, 2010
May you rest in peace. You are truly a hero in our hearts.
ben d
July 8, 2010
Thank you for your desire to help others in need. There is so little of that anymore. It is tragic that William had to lose his life. I think of him as a hero, which hopefully will bring some comfort to the Walker family Rest in peace you are a true hero.
ERICK MONROY
July 8, 2010
You are a hero. Rest in peace. You are an example of the person we all need to be.
Tom
July 8, 2010
I have know Bill for over 25 years, and the Bill I knew would not think twice about risking his life to save others.
He was a very gentle being, very kind, very funny and extremely intelligent.
He loved his woodworking, we built many things together.
His boss and the people at his work are missing him tremendously. They valued him like a rare diamond.
HE WILL BE MISSED!!
Be at Peace Bill.
ML
Rachel Lemus
July 8, 2010
Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. Our thoughts are with walker family during this difficult time. We want to solute this man who risked his life to save others.
True act of Humanity - Divya San Jose
July 8, 2010
wow....true heroes among us. Probably died thinking about his own family....and how he would want someone to give it their ALL to protect them. A true case of DO UNTO OTHERS. Poetry in motion. God bless.
Laurie & Family
July 8, 2010
Bill was our customer and very affable and polite in his mannerisms.
I had recently spoken to him about an inquiry and I am shuddered to hear about the tragic loss.
He will always be cherished by the people he touched in his short yet purposeful life.
RIP
Babita Lakhanpal
Oakland, California
Babita Lakhanpal
July 8, 2010
Thank you for your desire to help people who are in need of help. You are a truly hero, a person who had a good heart to other people. You may be in our heart for some reason, your soul, spirit and your kindness heart. You are just a thoughtful and generous person to help other people. May you have a REST IN PEACE. You are a truly kindness and truly friendly person. You may always have in our thought. We always Love you and RIP.. And Condolence to all the Walker Family.We Miss You A Lot Bill.
Mercy Agbayani
July 8, 2010
I thank God for people like William Walker. 25 years ago my life was saved by a hero like him. I entered the water to save my son who was being pulled out to sea. I saved my son but was too tired to get myself out of the water. A passerby came to help me as others just stood by and watched. America needs more real one on one heros like Mr. Walker. My prayers are with his family and friends.
Dick Garrett
July 8, 2010
RIP....a true HERO. May God bless you and comfort your family. Bob M
July 8, 2010
What a tremendous human being. Risking his own life to save many others. May God watch over you and your family. You'll be missed. Not forgotten. Thank you for showing there is so much goodness in this world.
M Ryan
July 8, 2010
You made such an honorable sacrifice. Thank you, and God bless you. Rest in peace, Mr. Walker.
Lillie James
July 8, 2010
Most men believe they would be brave in an emergency. That is often not the case. This guy is a genuine hero, a real MAN.
mark g
July 8, 2010
Thank you. People like you make the world a better place and inspire us to think beyond our narrow needs. You have done more than what most people will ever do.
May you rest in peace.
Gaurav Shrivastav
July 8, 2010
There is no greater deed to give your life for another. A great human being, A great American!
Frank D'Amico
July 8, 2010
My heartfelt sympathy to the Walker family...your truly a hero!!!
Annalyn
July 8, 2010
Hero.
Mike A
July 8, 2010
Bill,you will always be remembered.you are such a good person,a kind boss and a true hero.may you find happiness and rest in heaven.we all missed you at silitronics.
julie cainglet
July 8, 2010
Bill, you are such a good person.a kind boss.you always wanted to help whenever somebody needs help.my thoughts and prayers will always be with you.you will always be remembered.may you find happiness and rest in heaven.
julie cainglet
July 8, 2010
Bill is a true hero. He gave his life so that two others could live. I am so sorry to his family for their loss.
Darcy S
July 8, 2010
My deepest sympathy to the Walker Family.He was truly a HERO!!!
Annalyn
July 8, 2010
My deepest symphathy to the Walker Family.He was truly a hero!!!
July 8, 2010
Rest in peace.
I just wanted to say, that in a time and in a world where I've been finding it hard to believe in the integrity and hearts of the people around me. Reading this truly warmed my heart and reinvigorated the feelings beating within my chest to do what is right, to stand for what I believe in and to give unconditional understanding and love to those we share our world and lives with. Thank you Mr. Walker for taking the ultimate risk, and making the ultimate sacrifice to give those people a second chance. As you've also given me a second chance at hope. These were the actions of a man who must have believed in and loved people and the world around him. Thank you.
G M
July 8, 2010
My heart goes out to Charlie,Judy,
and the whole Walker family. Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow,may looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow. Bill is a brave and true hero, and he will be your guardian angel.
Gina L
July 8, 2010
I don't know Bill Walker, but I am moved by his action of love for 3 people that he didn't even know. I know Bill's family must have mixed emotions, missing him dearly and proud of his bravery and heroism. Bill's reward is in heaven for his sacrifice and unbelievable sefless love. My condolences to his family and friends. What a great man you were blessed to know.
Mike Stalions
July 8, 2010
What a great act of courage. May Mr. Walker rest in peace. Condolence to all his family and friends that he left behind.
July 8, 2010
I am a total stranger touched by the story of Bill's courage. What a selfless act....My deepest condolences to all of his friends & family.
Erika
July 8, 2010
Thank you for your desire to help others in need. There is so little of that anymore. It is tragic that William had to lose his life. I think of him as a hero, which hopefully will bring some comfort to the Walker family
Kristin Hunt
July 8, 2010
I just read about what happened and at the very least wanted to say thank you for the person you were. Thank you for being a true hero and rest in peace.
Tom R
July 8, 2010
you are a true hero. rip.
cary
July 8, 2010
I live in the Santa Cruz area, Calif.. Oh, I was so touched by the story of this man that I never met. What a true human being - what a kind heart, soul, spirit. How generous and thoughtful, to do what he did. There is no greater sacrifice, than to put others before one's Self. This man is the perfect example of a wonderful human being. My condolences to his family.
Linda Mallory-Gravis
July 8, 2010
Psalm 34:18 says, "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted."
I'm praying that you will feel His love and His presence as you walk through yet another tragic loss...
Lorna
July 8, 2010
Just an absolute hero. What a great human being. Inspiring.
Brian Lawler
July 8, 2010
For decades, my father has shared a friendship with Bill that has helped him and our family through extremely difficult losses. He was always a true friend and boss. Bill's unselfish and heroic act proves how he is so willing to give of himself. His passing is a big loss to so many people whose lives he has touched.
Michelle Fisher
July 8, 2010
I did not know Bill, but I knew his Brother Ron, and it is no surprise to me that Bill was the same stand up guy that his Brother Ron was, and that he would commit such a selfless act. I attended Ron's funeral and I am so sad to think of the family going through this again so very soon. My heart felt thoughts and prayers go to you and a gentle reminder that you raised some truly wonderful human beings.
Terry Tonty
July 8, 2010
Rosemary Avila
July 8, 2010
I did not have the honor of knowing Mr. Walker but I feel so sad at the loss of such a courageous, heroic and selfless man. My deepest condolences to his family and friends.
Sandra
July 8, 2010
My deepest condolences to the Walker family. Thank you Bill for your unselfish act of courage and kindness. You are a true hero and an angel.
Lisa C
July 8, 2010
MY DEEPEST HEARFELT CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY OF A TRUE AMERICAN HERO. THE SORROW RUNS DEEP AND THE WORDS SEEM LIKE A MIST. THE MEMORIES YOU HAVE OF THIS MAN WILL NEVER DIE OR DISAPPEAR AS THE MIST I MENTIONED. THE FINALITY OF IT ALL IS, IT WAS HIS TIME. GOD'S BLESSING TO YOU ALL.
BILL PULKOWNIK
July 8, 2010
Bill made the choice to enter the water knowing that his odds of surviving were reduced dramatically. We hold him in the same high esteem as we do the 343 firemen in the FDNY. He will always be in our hearts.
Gene Maher
July 8, 2010
A true guardian angel on earth!
July 8, 2010
Dear Walker's family,
We applaud William's courage trying to save an entire family. While you managed to save a young and an elderly lady, you risked your own.. RIP sir.
Heart felt condolences to you all!!
God Bless!!
Balu G
July 8, 2010
There are some angels who walk amongst us. Mr. Walker was one.
Catherine Bernard
July 8, 2010
I don't know you personally Mr. Walker. What you did for those 3 strangers was the most unselfish and courageous act. The angels will be watching over you and my sincere heartfelt sympathy to your loved ones.
Jackie V
July 8, 2010
People like you restore faith in the rest of humanity. God bless you and your family. May you forever rest in peace.
Raj Chatterji
July 8, 2010
A true guardian angel on earth!
July 8, 2010
My condolences to Bill's friends and family. He was a real hero!
Chris Roberts
July 8, 2010
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