William Paul Barrie III

1947 - 2024

William Paul Barrie III

August 4, 1947 - March 31, 2024

Clovis, California - William Paul Barrie III, known to most as Bill, was born on August 4, 1947, in Wichita, Kansas, to Patricia and Eugene Barrie. He was raised in Fresno, California, alongside his older sister, Nancy, and his younger brother, Jeff. Bill graduated from Hoover High School in 1966 and later from Fresno State University in 1971.

Bill was proud of his early years as a Vista Volunteer in West Virginia and held fond memories of his time as a bellman at the Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite National Park. His professional career was largely spent as a pharmaceutical sales representative for Abbott Laboratories, though he humorously referred to himself as a "drug dealer." Bill was also renowned for his beer-chugging prowess, often leaving challengers' egos in his wake. He was a loyal friend and a kid at heart.

A devoted family man, Bill's challenging relationship with his own father motivated him to be the best father, grandad, and person he could be. He coached his sons in youth sports, connected with them on their level, supported all their endeavors, and was always there for them. Bill chose to pass on career promotion opportunities to avoid disrupting his family with relocations. Family vacations were a priority for him.

In retirement, Bill and his wife, Sandra, traveled extensively, spending months at a time visiting their grandchildren in Italy and Germany, exploring Northern Africa and every corner of Europe. Their most adventurous trip was to China, where they journeyed down the Yangtze River. Bill and Sandra celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on August 21, 2021, a milestone they both cherished.

Bill passed away on Sunday, March 31, 2024. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Sandra; sons, Paul and Marc; daughters-in-law, Marisa and Marikah; grandchildren, Rebecca, Allison, and Liam; brother, Jeff; sister-in-law, Kathi; aunt, Barbara; cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Patricia and Eugene; sister, Nancy; brother-in-law, Jerry; and Bob Hoffman.

As family and friends lingered during goodbyes at their house, Bill would commonly joke, "How can we miss you if you don't go away?" Bill, your family and friends miss you deeply.

A Memorial Service for Bill will be held on Friday, August 16, at 10 a.m. at St. Anthony's Catholic Church, located at 5770 N. Maroa, Fresno, CA 93704. A Celebration of Life will immediately follow at a nearby location.