William DOVE

William Edward Dove July 22, 1927 ~ July 27, 2010 54-Year Lafayette Resident William Dove died peacefully at home with his family by his side on July 27, 2010, he was 83 years old. Bill was born and raised in Oakland, California; attended Oakland Tech High School; and joined the Navy at 17. His service was with Landing Craft Unit 63 and was assigned to the USS Intrepid Aircraft Carrier. Upon his Honorable Discharge from the Navy, he began his long career in the plumbing trade. He retired as an estimator and project manager for the construction of large commercial buildings. Bill was a life member of Plumbers and Steamfitters Local Union 342 (formerly Local 444), and celebrated 63 years of membership. While raising his family, Bill was instrumental in the development of the Lafayette Little League and the field where it is today. He coached and then became umpire-in-chief. Bill loved the outdoors and enjoyed camping, hiking, racket ball, golf, traveling, and was an avid reader. Most of all, he loved his family and gave of his time. He was a hard-working, generous, and unselfish man, with a wit that will truly be missed by all who knew him. He is survived by Shirley, his loving wife of 59 years; their devoted children Gary Dove (his wife Deborah) of Gardnerville, Nevada; Karyn Dove-Mitchell (her husband David) of Burney, California; and Dawn Dove of Bay Point, California; their grandchildren Tyler Dove, and Emily and Lindsey Mitchell; his brothers and sisters Raymond, Charles, Edwin, Theresa, and Margaret; and nieces and nephews. We will be forever grateful and thankful for the gift we were given. Interment with Military Honors will be held at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, Dixon, California. A gathering to share the memories and life of William Dove will be held at the family residence at 1pm on August 28. In lieu of flowers, please donate in the name of William E. Dove to the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, Office of Institutional Advancement, #1 Intrepid Square, West 46th St & 12th Avenue, New York, NY 10036; or to a veteran's organization of your choice.