Photo courtesy of Luyben Dilday Mortuary
Long Beach, California
William B. Collette
November 21, 1943 – April 24, 2018
Place of Birth: Long Beach, CA
Place of Passing: Long Beach, CA
One of the “BEST of the BEST” going home, but now to see his only child Brian again at the gates of Heaven. Rest in peace. Bill’s only child died suddenly of cancer 2 years ago. Both were Long Beach Policemen. Bill had a 36-year career with the force, 21 years as a homicide detective. His son Brian, in addition to working all patrol divisions, worked as a Field Support DARE Instructor, Emergency Operations Homeland Security Detail, Admin Officer as well as SWAT Technician.
They both received numerous commendations during their careers and son Brian was awarded Meritorious Class B. Both William and Brian were described as true gentlemen whom fellow officers loved and respected.
They were both born, lived, worked and died in Long Beach, CA.
Family requests no flowers. Please contribute to your favorite charity.
William Collette is survived by his grandson Kyle, granddaughter Madison and Connie Collette.
Luyben Dilday Mortuary (562) 425-6401
I was praying for you and your son last night. I miss our talks and everything about you. I’ll never forget what you have done for me and my family years ago. I’ll always keep you close to my heart .
Carmen Gonthier
April 20, 2021 | Las Vegas, NV | Friend
I miss you Bill and I thank you for your friendship and all the work you and Steve did on my son’s case. I will never forget you or all the help you have given. I love ❤ you my friend.
Carmen Sue Gonthier
December 21, 2020 | Las Vegas, NV | Friend
I miss our talks but will never forget what you have done for me and my son
Love you Bill
Carmen Gonthier
February 02, 2019 | Signal Hill, CA | Friend
First Class Homicide Detective.......First Class human being. Every citizen of Long Beach owes this man immeasurable gratitude. But as humble as Bill was, he would never take it....he would just return the thanks back to the giver. Thanks Bill for making me a better DA and a better man!
Scott Carbaugh
May 20, 2018 | Anaheim, CA | Coworker
In loving memory of a wonderful person. Always such a kind hearted man! You will be missed Bill. I know Brian is happy you are together again. Prayers to the family!
Sandee Moore
May 02, 2018 | Glendale, AZ | Friend
Connie, Tom, Laura, Doug, Kyle, Luke,
We are beyond heart broken for your loss. Bill was the kindest, most caring, generous man we have ever met. Being his next door neighbor was our privilege. We will miss not seeing our friend everyday. We will always remember him as a wonderful man with great integrity, a nurturing father, a trusted colleague, and a loving human being. His absence is immeasurable, but we will cherish the times spent with him (and all of you) as some of the best...
Cathy Lunniss
April 28, 2018 | Long Beach, CA | Neighbor
Bill, it was an honor to know you and to have called you "my friend." You will be missed by many. Your personal integrity and your professionalism was admired and respected by all who knew you. I will treasure the memories of your friendship. Rest in Peace.
Paul Robbins
April 26, 2018 | Huntington Beach, CA
I would like to offer my most heartfelt condolences to the family of William "Bill" Collette. He was a very good friend. Bill and I both worked at LBPD. His passing is a great sorrow to me and obviously to his family.
Keith Elkins
April 26, 2018 | SAN ANGELO, TX | Friend