William J. Figge Jr.

1925 - 2010

William J, Figge Jr. AKA as "Bill, Billy, Honey, Dad, Grampy, Uncle Bill was born on January 24, 1925 in Booneville, Missouri. He was the 5th of 6 children. His family relocated to Hollywood, California in 1931 where he attended school. Bill most liked going to the beach, time with his buddies and occasionally sneaking into the movies.

When WWII started Bill joined the Navy. He spent most of his service in the Pacific War Theater as a Seaman First Class Gunners Mate on Destroyers and Merchant Marine Vessels. Bill met his future wife, Patricia "Pat" DuFort in 1945 on a blind date. He relentlessly pursued her until she finally agreed to be married on July 12, 1946. Their romance continued for 64 more years. And Patsy has always been at his side.

After coming home and starting a family, Bill attended law school at nights holding many jobs until 1952 when he started a 35 year career with the Automobile Club of Southern California. For many years he was the #1 Sales Representative for the Club. Most of his years were spent in Management until he retired in 1987. He was seen as an outstanding leader, mentor and role model.

During Bill's time with the Auto Club he developed a passion for community service. He held leadership positions for many organizations such as, Rotary International, Chamber of Commerce and the American Heart Association. He collected coins, antique lighters and old license plates. He was an amateur Magician, delighting everyone. He loved to bring smiles and laughter. Bill and Patsy spent many years in camaraderie with the Conejo Campers Club and have fond memories of traveling the USA with close friends in their RV. He always had great energy, determination, positive thinking, optimism, and encouraged all he met.

Many relied on Bill's integrity. He was kind and forgiving and enjoyed volunteering with organizations such as Mana. He often said he was a "lucky man". Those who knew him know that he made most of his own luck. Bill lived by the Golden Rule and deeply believed in the Serenity Prayer. His commitment to America and its principles was often a rousing topic of conversation. He always reminded us of our obligation to vote and to take responsibility for our freedoms. Bill brought a lot of joy and love to everyone.

He will be greatly missed and remembered by his family and friends. He leaves his wife Patsy, son Bill, daughter-in-law Patti, granddaughters, Kristen Ruiz and husband Michael and Kimberly Garfias and husband Nicholas. He was especially proud of his great-grandchildren, Reiko Garfias and Jackson Ruiz.

Bill died peacefully surrounded by his family at home on November 29, 2010.