Wilbert R. McEvoy

Will "Mac" McEvoy passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 5, 2009. Born on October 28, 1918, in St. Paul, Mn., he grew up in Los Angeles. After one year at Loyola University, L.A. on football scholarship, he was drafted into military service just before Pearl Harbor. He married Leora Rowland in April of 1942, prior to duty in China-India-Burma as a P-51 "Mustang" fighter pilot with the 429th Army Air Corps Squadron where he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross with clusters and other decorations. He retired in 1978, as a Construction Supervisor from a long employment with Pacific Bell Telephone Company. With his wife, he devoted his time and attention to raising their four children and related community activities. He served on the Board of Trustees in the fledgling Scandanavian School District; coached little league; was a Scout Master; attended many games, plays and concerts; and shared his deep love of the outdoors with his children. Will was a talented self-taught craftsman and woodworker. He was active in Telephone Pioneers and the local Air Force Association "Warbirds". Will's son, Patrick passed away in 2003. He is survived by Leora, his wife of 67 years; Patrick's widow, Jody McEvoy of Chatsworth; son, Dennis McEvoy and his wife Marcia of Fresno; daughter, Gail Fairburn of Santa Barbara; son, Roger McEvoy of Fresno; eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. At his request, there are no services. Donations may be made to Nancy Hinds Hospice.