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William Halonen Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for William Halonen
Sponsored by Alexa, Maximillian, Stephanie, and Sydney - Grandchildren.
Charles Hertlesburg
October 9, 2022
Was thinking about Bill and just happened to google him and saw he passed away some time ago and was suddenly overcome with a reverent sadness. He and I belonged to the same shooting club many moons ago and I was always quite impressed with his firearms skills, knowledge, and his collection. He was quiet but within his being was so much history and experience that he would never tell tale about. Having lived in the South Pacific, Japan, Germany, and Korea as a World War II Pilot and counterintelligence officer you'd think he'd tell of his many exploits. But those tales never passed his lips. I suppose he made the decision to take those experiences with him. Quietly and with dignity. Much like the way he lived his life. Being a military man myself - though of a younger generation, I admire the Greatest Generation of which Bill embodied and always admired him. I never met Bill's family but enjoyed reading a bit about the twins in these tributes. To Bill's girls: Your father was one of my living heroes as I'm sure he was to you and I wanted to try to glorify him as best I can with my limited skill. May he rest in peace in Glory forever and ever Amen.
June 16, 2019
June 16, 2019
June 16, 2019
Michael Baum
August 2, 2017
For some reason, I thought of Bill today, and when I put his name into the computer I sadly found his obituary. When I was a postal inspector in the San Francisco Division assigned to the Mail Fraud Team, I worked in the same hallway as Bill. I quickly came to know him as a very nice man and a true gentleman. When I assisted Bill on a few of his narcotics cases, I saw what a dedicated and hard-working investigator he was. Bill was generous with his time in teaching me about narcotics investigations. I also enjoyed the conversations we had when he told me about how he and his wife had adopted two young girls from Korea, about his being stationed in Wiesbaden, and about his interest in cars and rally racing. I remember fondly the time I spent with him when we worked together. Even though the date is late, I offer my sincere condolences to his daughters and his family.
Stanley Strocher
March 15, 2014
This is a bit late, but we never forget those that leave positive, lasting impressions on our lives. My family and the Halonens were neighbors on La Mesa Lane in Burlingame for many years. I grew up with Becky and Suzie and attended the same schools.
I can remember the first time I met Mr. and Mrs. Halonen and thinking how amazing it was that they adopted twins from Korea. My brother Mark and I were both adopted as well so felt a bond with Suzie and Becky from the start. I respected both Bill and Alice for not seeing any issue with race during a time when that was a problem with many people in America. My parents held the same respect and admiration for Bill and Alice not only for what they did but who they were and their values.
My mother was very fond of Alice and my father enjoyed Bill's company. The Halonens always took the time to chat when we ran into each other. I can remember many a times I had to be patient at the grocery store while they talked about what was the current topic of the day. They would always take the time to include me in the conversation and I was always grateful to be acknowledged. I never felt treated as a child when conversing with Bill and Alice.
One time Mr. Halonen spent a good part of an hour talking with me about skateboards which I was deeply involved with as a teen during the 70s. He remembered the old clay wheels and wood decks from the early 60s and was always interested in what was new in the sport's technology. More than my father so I made sure to show him my latest skateboard. The Halonens lived on the top of La Mesa Court and was one wild ride down it. Bill asked me to make sure they knew we were going to be flying down the hill for our safety. It made me feel grateful that Bill and Alice cared about us like their own children.
Bill and my father had similar interests, especially their love for cars. When Dad found out the Halonens had a Checker he called Bill and asked if he could bring me over to see it. Mr. Halonen was genuinely honored to show off his pride and joy. I am sure Becky and Suzie hated that they had to be driven around in the “White Taxi”.
I thought it was actually kind of cool at the time. Dad said you couldn't have any safer car, I am sure that is why Bill purchased it. He and Alice loved their girls and made sure they we allowed experiencing the good and bad times growing up and becoming proud parents themselves.
The last time I think I saw both Bill and Alice were at my father's funeral when I was 29. Both of them were visibly saddened but touched to have had my father and mother in their lives. Bill told me personally with tears, that he always saw the great attributes my father had in me as well. I will always cherish those kind words, as my father was truly the greatest friend I will ever have.
I have recently reconnected with Suzie after over 30 years since those La Mesa days. I hope to see Becky soon as well. I see the intelligence, generosity, and devotion to family that I remember Bill and Alice showing towards Becky and Suzie, as well as anyone else that were a part of their lives. Bill and Alice's service to our country can never be repaid. I am honored to have known them both during my life, as a child and into adulthood. They instilled many great things into their daughters and grand kids I am sure. Suzie and Becky, you were truly blessed to have been adopted by your parents. I only wish I could have told them both the impact they had in my life and my parent's. So this will have to do. Peace be with you.
A very young William A. Halonen
August 9, 2010
A Former Neighbor
August 1, 2010
Becky and Susy,
I just saw this, though it is years late, and didn't want the moment to pass by to honor your father - as many moments fly by, never seized. I remember you girls from when you were toddlers, never knowing how to tell you two apart: always giggling, always laughing, always TOGETHER. You were virtually indistinguishable, a trait your father would lament/praise as he often said, "They are each other's best friends - and worst enemies."
No matter where I went in the Bay Area, it seemed to be accompanied by visions of Becky and Susy running, always running. Your parents were very proud of your athletic achievements, although I'm not sure they understood your passion for running. I remember Alice as the chaperone for your softball team, and always driving you girls to practices, track meets, gymnastics, church activities, etc. Now that you two are mothers, perhaps you'll smile at this recollection.
I vividly remember the time you girls threw a party that was very well attended. I believe you two were in high school. This party occurred when your parents were on vacation (Hawaii?). It seemed like hundreds of people came and the Halonen house was turned into a disco. Needless to say, this was one of the "Halonen Twin Highlights" for your father. I imagine the "guests" at your soiree enjoyed the best vintage wines and port as I know your father had an impressive wine collection...I think your father was more angry at the fact that his wine collection, methodically selected over a period of many years, was dissipated in a night - rather than the fact that you girls had a rip roaring unauthorized party. We neighbors all wondered why you didn't invite us.
I remember you two always riding your bikes or skateboarding fearlessly. Of course, one cannot recall those days without Misty in the background. He was always cavorting with you girls either in the canyon or in your bicycle basket, or just hanging about the neighborhood.
Your father was a quietly confident man. Very honorable, very neighborly, very dependable, and just a bit intimidating to boot. Your mother would tell tales of his pilot days and I know firsthand the prestige those Army Air Corps pilots owned. They would walk into a bar with such enviable command presence. I believe you flew with your father often, as your mother was scared of flying. You girls should be proud of your parents who both proudly served in World War II and the Korean War. They are true heroes.
I know you all enjoyed endless happy family occasions at your beach house at Sea Ranch (as your mother always asked me to keep an eye on your home when you were at Sea Ranch).
So many memories to recall, so I won't. But before I finish, I have to recall your mother's 80th birthday celebration with the harpist and the fabulous food at the San Francisco Tennis Club. Your mother was so happy.
I'm sure your father and mother are together, in the presence and protection of their beloved Lord and Savior, and hoping you - Becky and Suzie - keep giggling, laughing, and always TOGETHER.
In Frankfurt, Germany 1959
October 19, 2007
Bill and Alice Halonen
October 19, 2007
Christina Corley
October 19, 2007
I just wanted to say how much I’ve enjoyed reading these guestbook entries for and about Uncle Bill. It’s wonderful to hear about some of the things I didn’t get to witness for myself. I had to laugh as I imagined him zipping around in his Porsche, because I always knew him to be such a cautious driver. We talked about his Porsche even just this last year, and boy did he light up whenever it was the subject of discussion! He must have really enjoyed that car. I keep thinking about Uncle Bill and Aunt Alice, and how much I miss them. Reading about the recollections of others provides a means of comfort I can’t explain, and evokes many more misty-eyed memories of my own. His red suspenders, for example, touched a chord with me, because my mind’s eye often puts him in that very attire as I reminisce. I recall other times, too, chatting quietly about his observations in life. I was pretty young when he told me that people blink more when they are concentrating, but it stuck in my mind because that was the first time I realized he gained a lot of wisdom through quiet observation and the meticulous study of details. On a different note, I was thinking the other day about some of the times he took me flying. What a thrill that was! I remember bragging to my friends that my Uncle was a pilot and was flying right to the Yuba City airport just for me. He’d pick me up and we’d take the “scenic route” back to the Bay Area. I can understand why he enjoyed it so. As I think about both Uncle Bill and Aunt Alice, I wonder how they managed such a hard life, yet remained so kind, gentle, giving, considerate and loving. My mom – Uncle Bill’s sister, whom he called M.J. – said that after the war, Grandma walked right by him without recognition when she went to pick him up. He was that emaciated and jaundiced. He didn’t talk much about his experiences during the war, but he shared some with his parents. Grandma said that he had been to hell and back, and that it changed him. I find myself wondering, now, how did it change him? What was he like before? What did he have to experience? I love both Aunt Alice and Uncle Bill so much, and it pains me to think of the ugliness they had to endure in life. Yet, inasmuch, they inspire me. Our lives are so easy and sheltered in comparison. Whenever I feel myself becoming jaded or hardened from my own life’s experiences, I think about from where they have come and how they remained two of the kindest and most honorable role models I have had the privilege to know and love. Thank you all, again, for sharing your thoughts and memories.
Marcy Fryday
October 13, 2007
Dear Becky and Susie:
I think my sister Sally wrote quite an eloquent entry about your father whom we miss very much. I will try not to repeat her thoughts although they echo many of my memories of him.
I remember Uncle Bill as a strong, quiet man who could do just about anything - from working with tools, taking photos, enjoying music, to having extensive knowledge about cuisine and wine. He was a very cosmopolitan, complex person. Many of his traits I sought to duplicate in the man I would eventually marry, so his influence on me regarding the male gender was tremendous.
While going to Northwestern in Chicago, your parents dropped by for a day or so and took my roommate and me out to dinner. They asked where I wanted to go, so I picked out a Japanese restaurant that I had heard about. We drove in the snow to find it, sat on the floor for dinner, and Uncle Bill introduced me to Japanese cuisine. I remember feeling guilty about their going to so much trouble to please this silly college girl!
When I abruptly left Louisiana State University and ran away to Hawaii, it was your parents who rescued me and probably saved my life. They were adopting you in Seoul, Korea, and needed help. I got a letter (no calls or e-mail back then) inviting me to fly to Korea to bring you babies back by plane so that Aunt Alice could return to the states by ship. Since the necessary paperwork took 3 months instead of 5-6 weeks, as originally thought, this gave us time to travel in that beautiful country and we got to know each other very well with me then as an adult. I remember Uncle Bill just staring into the crib with such loving eyes at his darling twin girls. While there, he bought me a camera and taught me how to use it. I have applied my skills in photography, thanks to him, to acquire jobs in the real world.
I brought you, as babies, back when you were 6 months old. Your father flew from Seoul to Tokyo with me on the first leg, making sure I had your milk bottles wrapped up in newspaper so they would keep. From Tokyo we three flew to Hawaii where we had to change planes. Then on to Los Angeles where some of his friends met us for a brief lay-over to just check on things. The last leg to San Antonio, we all got a bit restless, but your mother was so relieved to see us get off the plane - as the last passengers to disembark.
I did not see your father for quite a while after that. When he returned from Korea, you all lived in San Antonio and I was back in school at LSU. But, your parents came to my wedding in Monroe in July, 1966, bringing you and Aunt Fan for the occasion. Jack and I were married in our home, and yes, your father was our photographer! Then on we went to the country club for a big reception. Your parents went home early and were there when Jack and I arrived to change clothes for our honeymoon trip. I think they were guarding Jack's car so no one would "decorate" it for us!
Your father was so kind and thorough in everything he tackled. He was a role model for me and affected my life in numerous ways for which I will always be grateful and thankful. You are my second family. I am honored to by your God Mother and will try to do a better job in that role. I will do anything I can for you at any time. Please always remember that.
Love,
Marcia (Marcy) Service Fryday
Richard Corley
October 11, 2007
Uncle Bill,
I have been contemplating and reminiscing over the span of time that I have shared life with you since you have left us to join your Savior and new journey. I find myself centering on the quite times that we shared together in Burlingame, Sea Ranch and on the cruise. They were snippets of time – not long in length – but from them I take pleasure in the knowledge that your words of wisdom, born over your life time, were quietly and firmly planted. Your inner strength, at times, was easily overlooked because you directed the focus away from yourself and placed it steadfastly on your family, allowing them to flourish and grow. I remember times during many a Christmas that you were busy making sure that things worked smoothly, assisting your wife in any duty that required attention. You were the rock we took strength from and you gave many of us the foothold to take flight and attain the goals we were aiming at.
Your quiet humor was again something that I will remember and keep with me. Especially the time when we were in Colorado eating dinner at the Italian restaurant, and the meat ball escaped the dinner plate, rolled under the table, careened off the chair and table legs to come to rest on your shoe. Your wit and timing made us laugh.
The times we spent in Sea Ranch come to mind often. There were many a time, while standing out on the wood deck in the early morning mist or around the fire in the family area, that you shared a few life stories or your observations about the area. I always found you to be so insightful and thoughtful. I remember the time that we went to that small little vineyard you liked and you shared your knowledge on how the process of wine making was undertaken. At that time I had little knowledge about wine and was looking to learn more, and I truly appreciated your willingness to share what you knew – I found it fascinating and it started me learning more on the subject.
Overall, Uncle Bill I want you to know that I appreciate all the time we spent together, the wisdom you shared and the example you set with your quiet but strong demeanor. You were truly loved and will be missed. I look forward to seeing you again when this journey I am on takes me to the next.
Sally Mager
October 7, 2007
I am Bill and Alice Halonen's neice and have known Bill since I was a little girl in Pittsburgh, PA. My memories of him are every ending, but I vividly remember our first introduction. My wonderful Aunt Alice brought Bill to our home in Mt. Lebanon and introduced him as her fiance. We were thrilled as it was evident that he would make Alice happy, and they were very much in love. I loved his red suspenders, and he let me snap them. Those suspenders remained a sartorial "signature" the remainer of his life. Their wedding was to be a private affair--no guests. But my mom (Nokah) and dad (Sid, Alice's oldest brother) would not hear of us not being in attendance, so they packed up my sister, Marcy, and me and headed to Washington, D.C. for the wedding. Bill became an instant member of our family and supported Alice and all of us through through happy and sad times. Bill and Alice were stationed in Germany when my Grandfather Service died and Alice certainly would not have been able to fly home(she was petrified of flying) without his support. He almost literally had to carry her off the plane. I remember him coming back from Europe with a Porshe and racing around the streets of Pittsburgh at a high rate of speed. As a teenage girl, what could be more fun then being in a flashy car with my handsome uncle. Speaking of cars, how about that Checker? It was a defining car for Bill who was the most safety conscious man I know. I know it was an embarrasment for my cousins, Becky and Suzie, but when I rode in it, I felt we could knock any car off the rode and survive. Whatever car Bill owned, it had all the extra lights and signals that provided extra safety for the driver and passengers. I won't even go into all the extra pillows, etc. that were inside the car. I have lived in Indiana most of my married life, but I have always visited Alice and Bill no matter where they have lived from San Antonio, Chicago and finally San Francisco, Bill's hometown. I rode horses with Alice and Bill at a ranch in Bandera, Texas, battled snow in Chicago, and had so many wonderful times with him and Alice in San Francisco. I have eaten, slept and laughed at all three Burlingame houses, Sea Ranch, and also their San Mateo condo. Many a time, Bill came and picked me up at the SF Airport with his pink towel flying from the window, so I would know it was his car. There were always a huge collection of movies in my bedroom for me to watch that he had recorded fom the TV. Bill not only called Alice "dear" but also a loving neice. Bill was a caring, sincere uncle who I have loved practically all my life. He made everyone feel like they were special.
We always had our cocktails before dinner and peanuts--Bill eating his out of the lid of the jar. He loved his wine-especially Cakebread--and I will raise my glass to him the next time I drink it. A fairly recent event that was such a happy occasion for the whole family was when Marcy and I came out for Alice's 90th birthday party. Becky and Suzie did such a superb job of planning every detail,and Bill was so proud of all three of his women. I could go on and on about the restaurants we have enjoyed and the sights in SF Bill so patiently took me and my family, but I will revisit them with Becky and Suzie and in my own mind. Bill and Alice have always been a big part of my life and have left a void that no one can fill. They were my second set of parents and gave me unconditional love and support. I was always excited to see and visit them. I think of them both everyday and will do so, with love, forever.
Davalu Cummings
October 3, 2007
Suzanne is the best friend I have ever had and is closer to me than any sister could ever be. Suzanne, I know the loss of your father is difficult but I hope that your faith will bring you peace. What a great legacy your father has left in you: integrity, courage and honor. How could he not be proud of the beautiful, successful woman and mother you have become? May God bring you, Becky and your families comfort in your time of sorrow. You are in mine and Dave’s thoughts and prayers. Davalu
Chuck Hartmann
September 27, 2007
My wife Pat and I were Becky’s neighbors. We met Bill and Alice at Becky and Neil’s home on numerous occasions.
I think the thing I enjoyed most about them was Alice doing her best “eye-roll” as Bill would relate stories about bring-up “his” girls. It would not take long on any of our associations before Bill had me in stitches relating his special version of Becky-Suzie adventures.
My favorite story (and I think Bill’s as well) related to his proud attendance at the girls championship Baseball game. As the story goes, Becky was team captain and the star pitcher. According to Bill, this game was against the “Harbor District” all-star girls, each of which was about six inches taller and 50 lbs heaver than any girl on Becky’s team.
Bill provided pitch-by-pitch detail – he was sooo proud. I ask Bill if Becky struck-out any of the opponent batters…he said, she never threw more than two pitches to any single batter…the first or the second pitch always resulted in a home-run. I inquired as to the final score. Bill indicated, as best he could recall it was in the low 40’s…to nothing. Bill concluded, the game ended in the bottom of the first under a seldom-exercised baseball canon referred to the “mercy rule”.
I am sorry to abbreviate this story; Bill’s version lasted about 60 minutes and was hilarious, pitch-by-pitch and batter-by-batter.
I did not know Bill long, but I think I knew him well. He was a kind and loving husband, father, and grandfather and a gentle man with strong values and a wonderful sense of humor. I will miss him. God speed my friend.
Michael Johnson
September 27, 2007
Of all the things William Halonen will be remembered for, his kindhearted and loving character will be the first. One need only look at his daughters, to see what mattered to him the most.
Louis Quinonez
September 26, 2007
I want to take this take to share my condolences with the Halonen family. I pray that thir grieving passes quickly. I know that Mr. Halonen served many honorable years with the military and the federal law enforcement communities and it was honor to meet him (almost 20 years ago) when I was a new federal agent. He must have made a real impression on his daughter Suzanne as she has been a dedicated and tenacious DEA special agent since 1987. The "apple did not fall from the tree" as she has probably put as many bad guys in jail as her father did. Her service is a tribute to Mr. Halonen's example and positive influence.
Nick Gesi
September 26, 2007
I met both Bill and Alice in 2004, at the time I was in San Fran for work, along with Suzanne. I remember Suzanne, Becky and I went to Dinner with her parents. The thing that I remember most was the drive to the restaurant when I had the chance to talk to Bill, who was seated in the front passenger seat next to me, the others were in the back. Bill told me about alot of stories concerning Suzanne and Becky, the wild life (but good life) that they all had together. I remember by the end of the night that it struck me just how real of a man that Bill was, and also, certainly, how real of a Mother and wife, Alice was to both Suzanne and Becky.
Becky Savasta
September 26, 2007
To everybody-
I delight in reading over the memories, thoughts, and testimonials to my Dad. As you may or may not know, Suzie and I lost our beloved mom, Alice, just two months prior. It really has been a tought time for us as we feel their loss so immensely that the best way to describe it is a 'hurt' inside. However, they are both in a better place as their later years- especially this last year have been full of health 'hardships'. But thank you all for all your thoughts! I just wanted to take this time to thank you all who have taken this time to write down these tributes to Dad!
STEVEN PURDHAM
September 25, 2007
HI SUZANNE,Aheart felt sorry for your mom and dad ,I remember sitting around the super table with them.And thinking I wounder if he likes me I THINK HE DID WE HAD SOME NICE TALKS TO GATHER.aBOUT THE PAER APPLE TWO TREES GRAFTED TO GATHER AND THATS WHAT YOU GET, iHAVEN`t had one yet but I will. I remeber you asking your dad if we could borrow his cheker car and he let us ,than you ran into that sign at the gas station I HOPE YOU NEVER TOLD HIM.HE WAS VARY GENEROUS AND LOVING FOR SURE. i can still her your mothers voice around the house I can remeber the nice skirt she bought you and pick up some tickets for the comity show . you and becky had vary loving pareants thay were vary speical,I can see that I read your daughters guest book they sure did love there grand parants god bless them both
Dennis Petrotta
September 25, 2007
I was saddened to hear of Bill's passing. I remember working with Bill in the 70's and 80's in San Francisco. He was at all times a gentleman and selfless. He taught us young investigators at another Federal agency a lot about law enforcement. But above all he must be remembered for his love of family - as evidenced by his care and concern for his daughters.
Jeanne Choy-Allen
September 25, 2007
Bill was always the nicest person to work with. He was a gentleman and hard worker. He will truly be missed by those who were fortunate to know him.
Kim Sellers
September 25, 2007
I am so sorry, and am thinking of you all. Although I did not know him well, I could always tell what type of man he was from the limited (and fortunate) time that I was able to spend with him and also through my many conversations with Suzanne-- she often spoke of her father with such respect, love, and admiration. She often recounted the many happy times that her family shared, and I know that he was greatly loved and will be greatly missed. He touched so many lives and held many values such as honor and dignity that are rarely seen.
max newman
September 24, 2007
He was a very wise and experienced man. All his knowledge and understanding was wielded with a humble and easy going attitude. I remember conversing with him over my music and whatnot. He would always ask about my gigs with genuine curiosity. When he would speak, his words came from a place of wisdom. He was clearly a man of committment and generosity and I will always remember him.
Jeanne & Dave Plantier
September 23, 2007
Bill,
You welcomed us into your home as if we knew each other for a long time. We shared happy times with you and Alice. Now, you and Alice share eternal life with God. We'll miss you.
Gary Welsh
September 22, 2007
Just wanted to convey my sympathies to all of you. It saddens me to hear of Bill's passing. I was Bill's partner as a fairly new postal Inspector in 1988-89. We worked closely together. He taught me so much and his mentoring was responsible for much of my success as a federal agent during my career. I own much to him, and will think about him in the future. I retired myself just last year. I hope I can have as a fulfilling post-govt. life as Bill seemed to have after he left the service. Best Wishes, Gary Welsh
Alexa Newman
September 22, 2007
I'm so proud to say you were our grandfather and to have known, love(d) and spent precious time with you. I've always thought about you with enthusiastic respect and curiosity. You and Grandma lived VERY noteworthy, interesting lives which I and most others my age will never experience but hold in the very highest regard possible..
You were the very definition of class and taste. A "family man", a gem in our lives, the genuine paternal figure who I will refer to through fond memories for advice and simple ease. You've done men great justice, in my book!
I miss and LOVE you with all my heart. And though I would do anything to hear a simple "yes, Dear" or "I love you too, Dear", I am comforted in the fact that you and Grandma are together somewhere.
Thank you both for everything... You've served your family lovingly/the best and your country excellently.
My love to everyone in the family as well, of course.
Stephanie Reid
September 22, 2007
Grandpa,
I will miss you so much. You and Grandma were a huge part of my life, and I will always remember that you treated me with love and respect. I will miss Christmases at Sea Ranch, and being at the house in Sea Ranch. I remember visiting you in Burlingame and playing in the canyon. Anyone who knew you was blessed to have that opportunity. I love you, Grandpa, and I will miss you.
Sydney Dutil
September 22, 2007
Grandpa - I remember your fuzzy beard that tickled me when you gave me kisses. I liked holding your hand. Thank you for taking me on my first cruise. I will always remember how much fun it was with you. Thank you for adopting my mom and Auntie Becky because they are very loving to me and they learned from you. The last time I saw you, I'm not sure you could hear me. What I said was, "I love you Grandpa!" Rest in Peace with Grandma! I know you and Grandma are happy together.
Richard Stoffregen
September 21, 2007
Bill - I had the privilege of knowing you and Alice through your daughters. Bill was a quiet man, one who lived through troubling times,in the past century. A man who had a great code of ethics about life and treated everyone equally, no matter what their faults. Bill will be greatly missed by his family and friends. I personally will always cherish his short written notes and his friendship.
Brian Dutil
September 21, 2007
Bill was a sincere and true gentleman and I was proud to have developed a relationship with him as his son-in-law over the years. Whether it was in Burlingame, at Sea Ranch or in San Mateo, Bill would always open his house to my family and I in a way that made us feel at home.
Christina Corley
September 21, 2007
Uncle Bill, you have been like a father to me. Always a man of few words...but they say actions speak louder than words. It's in this way that you have taught me so much in life. Through your own life's example, you have shown me how I should expect to be treated by a gentleman, and so I married someone who respects and loves me as you did Aunt Alice. Through your own life's example, I have learned to be cognoscente of others, and consider how I might quietly go about serving their needs without requiring recognition. Through your own life's example, you have taught me to be proud without being prideful, to set high standards for myself and to persistently strive to achieve my goals. Through your own life's example, I have learned to keep guard over my thoughts and lips. I have never heard you utter a boastful word about yourself, nor a derogatory remark about others. You endeavor to help others reach their potential without being judgmental of shortcomings or failures. For someone who was content to remain quietly in the background, you have had such a profound impact on my life. But, it is that quiet, unassuming strength of character which I admire most, and I only hope I can live up to all you've taught me. For all you have given me, I can only say "thank you" - just two small words, which seem so insignificant in comparison, and yet they are so full of appreciation and gratitude. I love you, Uncle Bill, and I will miss you terribly.
Jeanette Sandor
September 21, 2007
Writing this to me is like giving a speech in High School (when I actually went), I never know what to say and I get all tongue tied. I have so many memories and stories I could tell but my first thought was that Mr. H. was a humble man and his love was unconditional. I grew up with Mr. H and/or Dad as I called him and Becky and Suzie were my best friends. I only lived right around the corner and was a frequent house guest for MANY years. Mr. H was like a father to me and I have known him since I was 5 years old…!
I remember having Mr. H. drop us off a few blocks away from the school because we didn’t want to be seen driving in the “Checker” was a tradition growing up! Or one of us popping the tire on one of our bikes after we rode to McDonalds so we wouldn’t have to ride up Trousdale then calling Dad to pick us up, not like we couldn’t walk!!!! But low and behold, there he came to scoop us up, driving the Checker of course! To this day I give a little sigh everytime I see a Checker Taxicab.
As I got older and finally had my own apartment I stopped by one day to say hello. Mr. H. took me aside and let me know that if I ever needed anything (clothes for an interview or a bill that needed to be paid) to let him know and he would be there for me. Of course I was humbled and determined not to have to ask over those beginning years. But to know that he was there for me meant everything!
As time goes by, we grow up, lives change as do friendships…..one of my fondest memories is sitting at the dinner table, after the wine bottle was corked and the dishes were being cleared, every dinner that I have ever had at the house, Mr. H ALWAYS said “You’ve done it again Alice”!
Dad, I will miss you dearly but dearly cherish every memory. Always!!!
Neil Savasta
September 21, 2007
Bill was my father-in-law, friend and a true inspiration. It was the highest privilege to have him marry his daughter and grandchildren (Alexa and Max) to me. He lived through the hardest of times and helped define the greatest generation with a quiet grace, decency and integrity that we can all look to with reverance. I remember some of our first family gatherings where Bill would say nothing but with ever the slighest expression spoke volumes. He connected not with words but with the deepest meaning.
He worked tirelessly to remove ugliness from the world, but lived for the tenderness he shared with his wife, Alice; Daughters, Becky and Suzie; and his grandchildren, Alexa, Max, Stephanie and Syndey.
Ed Marcinko
September 21, 2007
Suzanne and Becky:
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My heart, prayers and thoughts are always with you.
Rebecca Savasta
September 21, 2007
Dad- I could not have asked for a better, kinder, and more caring Father than you! A Guardian Angel must've been watching over Suzie and I when you plucked us up and let us into your life! You were the 'spear-head' of this family, constantly guiding us with all your many wisdoms and advice. I miss you so much and feel completely lost without your tender guidance- but I will prevail to make myself worthy of being your Daughter! I love you and only want to make you proud......
Bob Reid
September 20, 2007
Bill Halonen was my father in law, friend,source of inspiration and one of the most kind and caring men I have ever known. The scope of Bill's public service will never be known by any one person.
Bill Halonen's way of life and his terrific code of ethics will forever be the mountain that I will strive to climb.
Suzanne Halonen
September 20, 2007
I love you dad! You are my hero, my ultimate male role model, my mentor, and my Rock of Gibraltar. I'll miss you fiercely...
David Hertle
September 19, 2007
Bill is one of my Hall-of-Fame Inspectors. He was patient and unselfish with his time, his knowledge of his craft and his commitment to others.
His professional standards were an example to others.
Jerry Jones
September 19, 2007
Bill was a gentleman of the "old school".
I am proud to have known and been associated with him.
His work ethic was a testimony to the man he was and an inspiration to the younger Inspectors he mentored.
Bill had many talents but was extremely unassuming about them.
If you asked him if he could do something, he just asked "When do you want it done?" Then - he went out and did it!
Our sympathy to his family for their loss of Bill and Alice.
Sincerely, Jerry and Lauretta Jones
John Ruberti
September 18, 2007
I had the honor of working with Bill on a number of cases that affected the Chicago and San Francisco Divisions. He was an outstanding investigator and a great friend.
Wilbur "Bill" Holmes (retired P.I.)
September 17, 2007
Bill and I became friends during his assignmant at Chicago. I frequently flew with him when he maintained his pilot rating. He developed my interest in firearms marksmanship which went on to many shooting competitions and as a firearms instructor. I will always have fond memories of his friendship.
Paul Lowery
September 17, 2007
I remember Bill for his exemplary work as a Postal Inspector. I also remember him as being a consummate gentleman. When I arrived at the San Francisco Division in August 1987, Bill was a senior inspector and he warmly welcomed me and my wife. He had an interesting office which intrigued me especially with the intricately designed model planes which were gracefully suspended from the ceiling. I remember Bill as being one of the nicest people I met during my career and journey through life.
Jay Skidmore
September 17, 2007
Bill and I worked together in the mid 70's on narcotics investigations throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. He was an inspiration and great mentor to new Postal Inspectors, like myself, who had the distinct pleasure of working with him and being in his daily presence. May God bless him and keep him in His hands for eternity. His legacy of hard work and dedication to the law enforcement community will be long remembered by many who had the privilege & honor to work with him.
Susan Morton
September 17, 2007
Bill was one of the most thorough and tenacious investigators I ever had the privelege to work with. He was a gentleman and a professional.
Robert Dower
September 16, 2007
Bill was a true gentleman. He was a great help to me both professionally and personally. We also shared many memories of an earlier San Francisco. I consider myself very fortunate to have known him and I will miss him.
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