**William Russell "Willem" Light, 74**
William Russell "Willem" Light, 74, passed away on October 3, 2024, in Sacramento, California. A devoted husband, proud veteran, and steadfast worker, Willem lived a life marked by loyalty, kindness, and quiet strength.
Born on July 1, 1949, in Waynesville, Missouri, Willem later moved to North Sacramento where he attended Norte del Rio High School. He went on to study at Sacramento State University before choosing a hands-on career path that reflected his strong work ethic and dedication.
Willem began his professional journey with a local trucking company in West Sacramento—Bestway Trucking—when they first opened their doors. As the company evolved through name changes over the years, Willem remained a constant presence until his departure in 2014. Known for his unwavering reliability, he never missed a day of work unless it was a holiday or vacation. His colleagues counted on him for overtime shifts and camaraderie alike; he was affable and well-liked by all who worked alongside him.
After leaving the trucking industry, Willem continued to serve his community as a custodian for the San Juan Unified School District's Transportation Department in Carmichael. For 14 years, he brought the same dedication and warmth to this role that had defined his entire working life.
Willem proudly served his country in the US Army during the Vietnam War. A victim of Agent Orange exposure during his service, its long-term effects ultimately contributed to his passing. His sacrifice and courage remain deeply honored by those who knew him. His final resting place is at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon California
In his personal life, Willem found lasting love with Susan, his wife of 38 years. Their marriage was one of mutual respect and deep affection—Susan fondly recalls calling him her Prince while he treated her like a Queen. Together they built a home filled with laughter, shared passions, and unconditional support.
Though estranged from his only daughter for personal reasons, Willem embraced the role of "POP" to three children whom he helped raise and to many grandchildren who adored him. He was always present for them—in every way he could be—and left an indelible mark on their lives through his generosity and love.
A passionate sports fan, Willem's heart belonged to the San Francisco 49ers and Giants. He rarely missed an opportunity to attend games with Susan by his side. NASCAR held a special place in his heart as well; together they traveled far and wide—from Phoenix to Talladega to Sonoma—to watch races live. Willem possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of drivers and racing history that made every event even more memorable.
Beyond sports, Willem enjoyed collecting memorabilia tied to his favorite teams and pastimes. He also appreciated life's simple pleasures—a cold Bud beer after a long day or planning their next travel adventure with Susan. His intelligence was quietly remarkable; he had an expansive knowledge across countless topics that often surprised those around him.
Willem was preceded in death by his parents Russell and Reba Light; his older brother Russell "Bud" Light; and his sister Elizabeth.
He leaves behind Susan—his beloved wife of nearly four decades—as well as the children and grandchildren who called him POP and cherished every moment spent with him.
A man without pretense but full of heart, Willem will be remembered for the way he showed up—for work, for family, for life—with consistency and care. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him and carry forward the legacy of love he so freely gave.
William Russell "Willem" Light, 74, passed away on October 3, 2024, in Sacramento, California. A devoted husband, proud veteran, and steadfast worker, Willem lived a life marked by loyalty, kindness, and quiet strength.
Born on July 1, 1949, in Waynesville, Missouri, Willem later moved to North Sacramento where he attended Norte del Rio High School. He went on to study at Sacramento State University before choosing a hands-on career path that reflected his strong work ethic and dedication.
Willem began his professional journey with a local trucking company in West Sacramento—Bestway Trucking—when they first opened their doors. As the company evolved through name changes over the years, Willem remained a constant presence until his departure in 2014. Known for his unwavering reliability, he never missed a day of work unless it was a holiday or vacation. His colleagues counted on him for overtime shifts and camaraderie alike; he was affable and well-liked by all who worked alongside him.
After leaving the trucking industry, Willem continued to serve his community as a custodian for the San Juan Unified School District's Transportation Department in Carmichael. For 14 years, he brought the same dedication and warmth to this role that had defined his entire working life.
Willem proudly served his country in the US Army during the Vietnam War. A victim of Agent Orange exposure during his service, its long-term effects ultimately contributed to his passing. His sacrifice and courage remain deeply honored by those who knew him. His final resting place is at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon California
In his personal life, Willem found lasting love with Susan, his wife of 38 years. Their marriage was one of mutual respect and deep affection—Susan fondly recalls calling him her Prince while he treated her like a Queen. Together they built a home filled with laughter, shared passions, and unconditional support.
Though estranged from his only daughter for personal reasons, Willem embraced the role of "POP" to three children whom he helped raise and to many grandchildren who adored him. He was always present for them—in every way he could be—and left an indelible mark on their lives through his generosity and love.
A passionate sports fan, Willem's heart belonged to the San Francisco 49ers and Giants. He rarely missed an opportunity to attend games with Susan by his side. NASCAR held a special place in his heart as well; together they traveled far and wide—from Phoenix to Talladega to Sonoma—to watch races live. Willem possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of drivers and racing history that made every event even more memorable.
Beyond sports, Willem enjoyed collecting memorabilia tied to his favorite teams and pastimes. He also appreciated life's simple pleasures—a cold Bud beer after a long day or planning their next travel adventure with Susan. His intelligence was quietly remarkable; he had an expansive knowledge across countless topics that often surprised those around him.
Willem was preceded in death by his parents Russell and Reba Light; his older brother Russell "Bud" Light; and his sister Elizabeth.
He leaves behind Susan—his beloved wife of nearly four decades—as well as the children and grandchildren who called him POP and cherished every moment spent with him.
A man without pretense but full of heart, Willem will be remembered for the way he showed up—for work, for family, for life—with consistency and care. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him and carry forward the legacy of love he so freely gave.
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