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William Cartwright Obituary
WILLIAM (BILL)
EDWARD
CARTWRIGHT
July 11, 1938 - May 23, 2010
Mr. Cartwright went home to be with the Lord on May 23, 2010 following a battle with cancer, at the age of 72.
Mr. Cartwright was born in El Cajon, CA where he grew up and later met the love of his life, Donna Dae Chitwood. They married in 1957 and for the next 52 years continued to share their unconditional love. In 1966 Bill moved the family to the Imperial Valley where he contributed to the community over the years. Imperial High fundraisers, FFA, MDA, Special Olympics, just to name a few, benefited from his generosity. Mr. Cartwright was recognized by the City of Imperial as "Citizen of the Year", in 1993.
He loved baseball and playing softball. His excellent pitching led his team to win a State Championship in 1957. Over the years, he coached many Little League and Babe Ruth teams because he loved working with kids.
Mr. Cartwright served in the National Guard for many years. He worked in the grocery business for 48 years. Beginning his career as a young man in high school to support his ill parents, he started as a bag boy and worked his way to general manager position for Cook's Market and Big Bear Markets. He opened his own grocery store, Family Market, in 1997 in the city of Imperial, and closed it in 2002 to enjoy retirement. Mr. Cartwright also managed apartments in the cities of El Centro and Brawley. He has been known as vice president, manager, supervisor, but most importantly a great man.
He was preceded in death by his grandson, Jesse Cartwright; sisters, Vivian Higgins and Betty Padgett; mother, Olive Cartwright, and father, Edward Cartwright.
Bill is survived by his wife, Donna Cartwright; sons, Bill and Bob Carwright; daughters, Brenda and spouse John Grose of Nevada and Teresa and spouse James Gow of Nevada; grandchildren, Kylah and Juan Aguilera, Johnathan and Ashley Jaime, Krista and Eddie Flores, all of Imperial, John and Marla Grose of Nebraska, Bre and Joe Morgan, Chrissy and Joey Navarro, Brittney and Noe, twins Brooke and Brad Grose, all of Nevada, Bobby and Heather Cartwright of Oregon, and William Cartwright III of Texas; great-grandchildren, Taylor, Hailey, Logan, Katelynn, Alex, Mia, Joey Michael, Mason, Madison, and Matthew.
Memorial Services to be held Tuesday June 1, 2010 at Faith Assembly, 320 S. J Street, in Imperial, CA at 10 a.m. officiated by Pastor Albert Sanchez. Graveside burial will follow at church services at Evergreen Cemetery, in El Centro, CA.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Cancer Foundation or the Family Tree, 200 N. Imperial Avenue, Imperial, CA 92251.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William Cartwright
John Grose Sr.
June 26, 2010
I love you and I will miss you. Thank you for all you have done for me as a Father, and the Grandfather to my children. You are the greatest man I have ever know. Hope that God takes good care of you and I will see you again one day. Love you, John
Peggy Severe
June 26, 2010
On May 23, 2010 Heaven gained an awesome angel. Always know that he is watching over you from above just as he did here on earth. Bill was an outstanding person to everyone he ever met. He was the most caring and giving person, always ready to give a kid a chance. He was more than just a friend to us, he was family. We miss you very much. We will all see you again someday. To Donna, Billy, Bob, Bren, Teresa and all the grand and great grandkids. We love you all. Love Peggy, Jenna and Austin
Taylor Aguilera
June 26, 2010
Grandpa,
I will never forget the time that we shared together. I miss you so much already, it is just not the same at the house with out you.
Love you so much!
Taylor Aguilera
June 26, 2010
Grandpa,
I will never forget the time that we shared together. I miss you so much already, it is just not the same at the house with out you.
Love you so much!
Patty Jo Schulte
June 25, 2010
Bill was the most amazing person,I sit here and try to think of something to write and know that the Imperial Valley lost one of the most caring and loving people that has ever lived down there. My heart is heavy for all of his kids and Donna, to lose a husband and parent that has been their rock for so long is one of the hardest things to ever have to go through. I pray that God holds each one of you close to his heart and his angels surround each and every one of you and lifts you up during this time and give you peace and comfort knowing that Bill isn't in anymore pain or suffering. Bob, you were an inspiration to a lot of people to allow your dad to stay home in his final days, there are not a lot of people that could do that and I know that he would be grateful. I love you guys and hope that I can be here for any and all if you wish.
He was generous and kind to all..
Patty Jo
Donna Cartwright
June 25, 2010
Bill I miss you so much its been a month now. You will never know how much i loved you, all 53 years was a blessing. You were a wonderful husband,father, grandfather ,and great grandfather to our very big family. I will see you in heaven. Love you Donna.
Robert Cartwright
June 25, 2010
DAD It is a honor to be your son. You are the best father a man could ever ask for. I am missing and will always miss you. Rest in peace dad you deserve it. Love You
brooke grose
June 25, 2010
you've been our rock forever grandpa, always taking care of us and our needs. this is how i know you'll be watching over us in heaven, just like you always do. i'll never forget the summers i spent with you and grandma or the funny stories you used to tell. you're so important to so many people and we all love you so much. i honestly believe that you are the best grandpa anyone could have and that's why i'm so blessed that you were my grandpa. you were the most humble, and giving person i've ever known. i miss those summer days brad and i would spend with you- dinner at la hacienda, spending the day at boomers, or even just sitting on the couch next to you watching tv. i wish you were still here to watch me graduate from cosmetology school, be successful, have a family, etc. all i want to do is make you proud. i hope to one day be married and still be as happy as you and grandma were after so many years. you'll never know how much of an inspiration you are in my life in so many ways. there's not a day that i don't think about you. i just want to pick up the phone and call you just to hear your voice again. i often take drives and just reflect on all the fun times we had, while listening to your favorite alan jackson CD. i can not put in words how much i love you. you're forever in my heart. i'm proud to say you're my grandpa.
John Grose
June 25, 2010
Grandpa -
We are blessed beyond compare for having had you in our lives. Yesterday I saw a shirt that said, "World's Greatest Grandpa" and I thought, I truly had the world's greatest grandpa. Your strength will remain with all of us - you are with me everyday. I miss you.
Bre (Grose) Morgan
June 25, 2010
Grandpa...
I think of you every second of every hour of everyday. All the special times and memories we have will live on forever in my heart. It kills me that when I have more children they won't know you physically but...I will always tell them about you and keep your memory alive. Matthew loved you so much and treasures the times you hunted bunnies with him, played football and all the things you did with him. You were the best man I have ever known...our rock. Our family was so blessed to have you! I miss you so so so much Grandpa! I wish I could hug you again or get a kiss on the forehead just once more. I still don't understand that you're really gone. It seems unreal. I would do anything to bring you back but.. I know God has a plan and you are in heaven with him. I know I will see you again. I can't wait to see you again! I know you still hear me when I talk to you....I love you forever and ever!!
Thank you Heavenly Father for giving us the most amazing Grandpa in the world!
Marla Grose
June 25, 2010
When I think of Grandpa Cartwright...
I think about all the wonderful memories you've made for so many people...
I think of all of the love and care you shared..
I think of the compassion you've given..
I think of how lucky so many people are to have had you touch and grace their lives, including mine.
I think of grateful I am to have met you, but how much I wish we had more time together..
Thanks for being you Grandpa Cartwright, I miss you and love you!
Marla Grose
Brad Grose
June 24, 2010
When I think back on the times I had with my grandpa I think of nothing but happy times. Even in everyday things he effects me. For example, he was the person who taught me how to drive. One morning after breakfast we were heading home and he had me drive. The short drive home turned into a few hour adventure. Just me and my grandpa listening to music, sharing stories and telling jokes. He had an incredible way of listening and making you feel like the most important person in the world. Looking back I would trade anything for those few hours over again. He was truly an amazing person and words cannot describe how much so. I will pass on his lessons and strive to be just like him one day. I will always love my grandfather.
Brad Grose
June 24, 2010
When my uncle Bill was sleeping, my grandpa thought he would paint his toe nails.
Brad Grose
June 24, 2010
Brad Grose
June 24, 2010
Brad Grose
June 24, 2010
Brad Grose
June 24, 2010
Brad Grose
June 24, 2010
Brad Grose
June 24, 2010
Brad Grose
June 24, 2010
Brad Grose
June 24, 2010
Brad Grose
June 24, 2010
Brad Grose
June 24, 2010
June 24, 2010
Tracy West
June 24, 2010
To all the Cartwright family,
It's never easy losing a loved one. He was a wonderful man and had a heart of gold. He will be missed by the whole community.
Jeff and Tracy West
Teresa and James
June 20, 2010
Dad,
Today is Fathers Day and we would like to take this opportunity to say we love and miss you very much. You are in our hearts and thoughts daily. You are so special to us that the thought of going through life without your physical presence seems unbearable. You had a magical presence upon entering a room, your smile, your witty humor, your laughter, your funny faces, your jokes, entering the room with Olive, your stories of the past, the way you would dance with mom, kiss and hug your daughters, love your sons, the way you would hug your grandbabies and great-grandbabies making sure they were totally spoiled by the time they went home. As we all know "You are and will ALWAYS be the rock of the family". Happy Fathers Day Dad!
Brenda Grose
June 16, 2010
Dad, On May 23rd, 2010 we lost you here on earth and my life has not been the same. I miss you so much and wish this was just a bad dream. Life without you is so hard. Dad we are doing our best to take real good care of Mom ...We plan to see you in Heaven one day. I hope you know that you were an amazing Father to John and I and Grandfather to my kids... I love you so much Dad... Heaven gained and Amazing Angel that day! RIP Daddy!!!
Mia Nicole Navarro
June 13, 2010
Grandpa,
I was being held by Popem on the day of your lifes celebration. I was crying because I wanted desperately to see you so I could tell you that I love you. As Popem held me I told you that I loved you several times. I miss you Grandpa.
Chrissy Navarro
June 11, 2010
Grandpa,
oh my gosh!!! This just dosn't even feel real! I have this huge hole in my heart that will never be filled because it belongs to you. My days feel empty and sometimes confused. I hate that I have to go through the rest of my life never hearing your voice again, feeling your hugs and kisses or sitting next to you just talking. I call my voice mail almost everyday listening to the last message you left me just to hear your voice. I miss you soooooo much I can't even express. You always made me happy, always made my day and ALWAYS made me feel special. You were the biggest part of my life and I'LL LOVE YOU FOREVER. Thank you for all the fun times, loving me unconditionally and always being there. I hope you are happy in heaven and don't worry we will take care of grandma.
I LOVE YOU, LOVE YOU, LOVE YOU.
Joey Michael Navarro
June 11, 2010
Grandpa I love you.
Thank you for buying ne two games when my Mom said I could only have one.
Thank you for playing toss with me and Mason it was a lot of fun. I miss you. Love Joey Michael.
Grandpa Singing to Maddison
Ashley Jaime
June 3, 2010
Grandpa,
There isn't a day that goes by where we don't think about you, and miss you so much! we will cherish all the moments we had with you, from the times you would hold Maddison and sing to her, to all the butt chewings you gave to John, and for me all the wonderful memories of growing up next door and seeing the look on your face when you stood up at our wedding to be our BEST MAN! We love you Grandpa so much, and miss you terribly. We will meet again someday, but until then continue to watch over us, and keep us safe, just as you did when you where here. All the hugs and an endless amount of kisses are floating up to heaven just for you!
Love you always,
Your Grandson, Granddaughter, and Great Granddaughter,
John, Ashley and Maddison Jaime
Ernie & Sally Gow
June 3, 2010
On the behalf of the entire Gow family we would like to extend our deepest condolences to our extended family the Cartwrights.
Bill was an honorable man and we will truly miss him. He has been a wonderful person as well as Father In Law to our only son, and we will forever be thankful to both him and Donna for loving him. Bill was a very giving person and an inspiration to many people, he never asked for recognition for the great deeds he performed. If there were more men like him here on earth we would truly have heaven here on earth.
50th Anniversary Celebration
June 2, 2010
50th Anniversary Celebration
June 2, 2010
June 2, 2010
June 2, 2010
Barbara McRoberts-Laughery
June 2, 2010
Many times over the years I have fondly recalled living next door to Ed and Olive Cartwright on S. Magnolia in El Cajon when my 5 siblings and I were small in the 50's and 60's. My parents rented a little house on the corner of Lindale and Magnolia, my grandparents rented the house next door, and as luck would have it we had the greatest neighbors: retired policeman Ed Cartwright and his wife Olive. Old Ed sat outside on his lawn in an easy chair, and he had an old retired police dog named Rusty, a collie, who was always hanging around with us kids. Our family to this very day still tells Rusty stories. Once he even saved my life. I came home from kindergarten, Rusty stood at the back porch and would not let me in the kitchen: Rusty went in, and a burglar went out the front door! Old Ed would let us run through his yard just like we were his own grandkids. Their son Bill was as handsome and strong as his girlfriend Donna was wholesome and pretty. She was a princess to the neighborhood kids. They lived there in the little house when they first got married for a short time. My dad immensley respected young Bill. One day there was a horrible car accident out front on Magnolia, and my Dad Gordon and Bill were the first to get to the scene. They did what they could, and then held this young man as he passed away. Donna invited Beverly and I for a visit once, and we got to see the two boys, and a new little sister. My grandmother and Olive were best of friends and neighbors after their husbands passed away, and visited hundreds of times in each others living rooms. Olive joked that she had worn a path from her house to Minnie's. They watched Lawrence Welk and the Roller Derby! I took Grandma to visit Olive at the rest home. Olive gave my grandma an old sewing machine to keep for her. I still have it. My condolences that Bill has left his earthly home too soon. With loving memories from childhood of a great family. Sincerely, Barbara McRoberts
Kenny Musick
June 1, 2010
I would like to say to all the Cartwright family my heartfelt sympathy for the loss of a great and wonderful man. We lived on Pepper Dr. for many years and I always looked up to Mr. Cartwright. Bobby was my best friend and I always thought he was so lucky to have such a great Dad. Once at Sunbeam Lake Billy "beaned" me with a fast ball and knocked me out. I just remember that gentle bear of a man pick me up and carry me to the dug-out. When I awoke his words will always be burned into my mind, "look Kenny you are on 1st base". It made me laugh. Lots of love to you all, good memories last forever.
Brenda Thompson
June 1, 2010
Although I never met this amazing man....I happen to dearly love his special daughter Teresa and I know he loved her dearly. She and your family will miss your love and presence but in time they will embrace the memories and legacy that you left. Brenda Thompson
Preston Savell
June 1, 2010
You will be missed Bill. It was wonderful working with you
Preston Savell
June 1, 2010
Bill will be missed by all who knew him. Our sicere sadness and sorrow go out to his family for their loss
Roy Williams
June 1, 2010
He will be missed but not forgotten. Please accept my condolences and know
Roy Williams
Shannon Stewart
June 1, 2010
You will be missed Uncle Bill. My thoughts go out to our family during this difficult time.
nancy reeves
June 1, 2010
I will always remember Mr.Cartwright for his amazing generosity and giving.He leaves behind a loving and remarkable wife Donna. Also blessed with sons, daughters, there spouses and all those fantastic grandchildren. your memory and legacy will live on.
June 1, 2010
To Mrs. Cartwright,
I was deply saddened to hear of your loss. I will cherish the memories of the times we spent together while working at Cook's Markets. I first met Mr. "Bill" Cartwright in 1967 in Calexico when he and Jeff Cooper took over the Cooks Market Chain in the Imperial Valley. At the time I was 15 and a bag boy later moved to the produce department. Under Bill's direction I worked in all the stores in the produce departments over a four and a half year span. It was a great experience working at all locations.
We worked together when the new Brawley Store was opened and later I left for Cal Poly in 1971. I would return to see him from time to time when visiting my mother in Imperial. He was friendly and glad to see me and ask how I was doing. Back during our time together we spent many hours working in the produce section and creating new ideas. We had a very good working relationship and later I became a Genral Manager I rmembered how he would handle various situations.
He will be missed but not forgotten you have my sincere condolences on the loss of Mr. Cartwright, husband, father, grandfather, and former boss. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Greg Smith
Lodi, CA.
Skeeter Rose
June 1, 2010
I had the privilege of working for Mr. Cartwright at Cooks Mkt from 1993-1994 and again at Family Market. He was a great man. He could be tough, but he was fair. I will miss his jokes, listening to him sing in the store. Talking about baseball, and the Padres. A special memory stands out as the Padres were going to the World Series in 1998 we both were cheeing them on every game. To Donna and the Cartwright family my deepest condolences. he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Kaye Hughes
May 31, 2010
In one's life, there are those rare people that stand out due to their kind and compassionate manner. Mr. Cartwright was one of those people. Besides always being cheerful and hospitable in his market, I'll never forget how he helped me, then a young woman struggling to raise three children alone. If one of my checks to the market would bounce (and there were more than one), he never asked for an extra charge and he gave me the opportunity to pay for the check to avoid another bank fee. It may sound like a small thing, but it truly showed his concern and his caring, kind character. I'll always remember him with Donna smiling by his side. His family helped me in so many ways. When I start to feel disheartened, I think of people like Bill Cartwright who really make a beautiful difference in peoples' lives. Hello to the family. May God's gracious love comfort you during these difficult days.
Ron Renner
May 31, 2010
I went to work for Big Bear Markets in 1963 and worked with "Bill" in Poway. He was one of the nicest and most respected men I have ever known. He will truely be missed by all!
My sincere condolence.
Ron Renner, San Diego
Liz Brandon
May 31, 2010
I'M so very sorry
Jim & Bev Stewart
May 30, 2010
Donna, Bill, Bob, Brenda & Teresa,
I knew Bill from Working with Him at Cooks in the main office on 4th Street.
I watched all the kids grow up. I was at the Baseball games, at the house so much Bill would say "Donna is she ever going home". My Son Ken worshipped Bill and Bobby was his Idol. I moved to San Diego, El Paso, Albuquerque, Phoenix now Kikrland. I always called or dropped by. My parents Earl and Doroty Green shared a big part of the Cartwright's life. Donna is one of my Best Friens. We prayed, cried and shared our thoughts together. Mom went
to Ted to get her hair done and so did Donna. When I was in town Donna and I would meet at McDonald's for a quick get caught up. No matter how long it was in between visits we left off like it was yesterday. Then my dad got sick,. then Bill got sick so it was just a phone call or Birthday and Christmas Card, I always remembered Donna's BD. No matter what Donna loved
Bill. Through all the years her devotion to her husband, children, and grandkids never wavered. She is a devoted person and she loved the Lord
and God answered her prayers over and over. I am so glad I knew the whole family and was part of their lives.
I won't be there for the Service but I will be there in Spirit.
Next time I came down I will come by and have a cup of tea with you.
My Prayers are with you and all your family. I know Bill is with Jesus and he is truly at peace just waiting for you to join him at a later date.
Beverly Stewart
BOB BEVER
May 30, 2010
DONNA......I'M SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS,BUT GRATEFUL FOR ALL OF THE YEARS YOU HAD TOGETHER. BOTH OF YOU ARE SPECIAL PEOPLE AND OBVIOUSLY WERE MEANT FOR EACH OTHER. I REMEMBER HOW THRILLED BILL WAS TO MEET YOU WHEN WE WERE IN HIGH SCHOOL TOGETHER. IT WAS LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT!!!! BILL CAME FROM A LOVING FAMILY AND HAD A GREAT RELATIONSHIP WITH HIS MOM AND DAD. HE WAS A "GOOD" GUY EVEN THEN. I'VE NOT SPENT ALOT OF TIME WITH YOU THE PAST SEVERAL YEARS, BUT I"VE ALWAYS VALUED OUR FRIENDSHIP AND THOUGHT OF YOU OFTEN. IT DOESN'T SURPRISE ME THAT BILL WAS "CITIZEN OF THE YEAR". APPARENTLY YOU'VE RAISED A WONDERFUL FAMILY TOGETHER AND HAD A FULL AND COMPLETE LIFE. WINNING THE LOTTERY WAS JUST GOD'S WAY OF SAYING "WELL DONE MY SON"....AND HIS TIMING COULDN'T HAVE BEEN BETTER! HIS LOVE AND MEMORIES WILL LIVE ON.......BUT HE WILL BE MISSED! I WISH YOU WELL AND HOPE TO SEE YOU ONE DAY. MY CONDOLENCES TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY......BOB & SHARON BEVER
Kathleen Daniloff-Peeters
May 30, 2010
My hearfelt condolences and best wishes to the entire Cartwright family on the loss of Mr. Cartwright. May he watch over you until you are all reunited again.
Van Fried
May 30, 2010
Praying God's comfort and peace for Donna and all the family. It was a privilege to know Bill Cartwright. It was a blessing and testimony to watch the love, devotion and respect between Donna and Bill in their daily lives. "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen" Romans 15:13 Love, Van Fried
May 30, 2010
Donna,
I regret I can not be with you on this sad occasion. I worked with Bill at Big Bear Mkts starting in 1956. Later as a Vendor I called on Bill at Cooks Mkts and lastly at his own Family Market. I always looked forward to my visits to Imperial Valley and visiting with Bill. Bill always took time to meet with me and review past and present experiences. We had some good Laughs. Bill was one of a kind. Always the gentleman and Friend. Please accept my condolences and know Bill will always remain in my thoughts. Jack Wager (Spring Valley)
BRIT & NOE
May 30, 2010
WE LOVE YOU GRANDPA!!!!
Peggy Tharp
May 30, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Cartwright family in your time of sorrow. Just remember all of the lives he has touched and you will get through this. Hard days will come, but remember, he is up there looking down and smiling at you and encouraging each and everyone of you to do your best. Even though we don't know all of you, our heart goes out to you. Love and prayers through this trying time. Peggy and Jim Tharp, Bluejacket, Oklahoma.
May 30, 2010
Grandpa Cartwright was a special man to me and my family. He is the Grandpa to my son William Cartwright III Sometimes known as Will Cartwright "the turd" . Will is a special kid born a little too early but doing very good now and is about to catch up to his Dad Bill Jr. It was always fun to aggravate him and call for Grandma Donna and he would answer and I would say is the Boss home. I wont write all that he said but Donna would be on the phone..... I love him like a Dad and Will thought he hung the moon. Maybe he did ??
Love and prayers,
Venetia Williams , Willliam Cartwright III and Williams Family
New Braunfels,Texas
May 29, 2010
May the Lord bless you and strengthen you at this time.
"Thy word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path" Psalm 119:105
The Figueroa family, El Centro & San Diego Ca.
Maria Mason
May 29, 2010
Teresa, we are thinking of you and your family. May you all find comfort in knowing that he was loved by many.
Christy Pinuelas
May 29, 2010
Growing up I had the privilege to call Bill Cartwright my "Uncle Bill". What a great man. I think of him as a family man and a hardworking man. My favorite memories are driving to San Diego, Billy and Bobby in the bed of the truck, windows open singing - Banana Fofana... He had so much fun making up crazy endings with everyone's name. I also will always remember Christmas and how much fun he had getting everyone a special gift. In my mind he's so big and strong and loving. I know that he's at peace right now and for that I'm grateful. My heart and prayers are with you all - Love you SOOO much
Christy (Billings) Pinuelas and family
Joe and Christin Leon
May 28, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. He is in a better place and is living with the Lord. God Bless.
Juan Aguilera
May 28, 2010
Grandpa you were the true definition of love.
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." -Corinthians 13: 4-7
It's been hard to see you go. We will miss you; we already do.
May 28, 2010
I always will remember him when I used to go to their house for 4H projects and he always had smile on his face. May the Lord give you the comfort and the peace you need in your lives. My prayers goes out to the family of the loss of Mr Cartwright.
Cecilia Gobea Apalategui
Oceanside Ca.
Relita Butler
May 28, 2010
We have prayed for Bill's recovery and really enjoyed his company at our shop. He will be dearly missed. We only hope and pray for the best for his family. Especially the little ones who will never get to know thier grandpa & greatgrandpa.
Our thoughts are with you all and just remember the good times and it will help you through the tough times.
Sincerely,
Russ and Relita Butler
(Krista and Kylah's uncle and aunt)
wendy luevano
May 28, 2010
This man i will never forget. You will be missed deeply. My heart and prayers go out to the family. Rest in peace Mr Cartwright.
Michelle Pierce-Lydick
May 28, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Cartwright family. May you find comfort and serenity in knowing that he is whole again.
Much love to all of you,
Gongora Family
May 28, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Bill Caldwell
May 28, 2010
It is rare to know a person who helped so many. Bill was a big man both in stature but also in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be missed and the thoughts and prayers of my family go out to him and his family. Rest in peace Bill you deserve it.
May 28, 2010
Our condolences goes out to the family for their lose of a great man. I worked many years for Mr. C. He had the biggest heart I had ever seen in a man. I had met my wife while we were both working for him at Cook's and he helped us out a lot. The Imperial Valley is going to miss him. John and Evelyn Holder and Family
James Gow
May 27, 2010
I remember when I first met this remarkable man that would eventually become my Father-In-Law it was in his store "The Family Market" in Imperial, California. Under a critical and watchful eye he allowed me to become a part of the family of course I had to promise him that I would always be there for his daughter and his beautiful grandchildren whom he loved so much. He never asked for anything of me other than to love them as he loved them. He was always there to guide, counsel, love, yes, and even scold me if I deserved it (even though he hated scolding anyone). Dad was the most honorable man I have ever met, he was gental yet stern, honest, caring, forgiving and above all the greatest family man God could ever gift a family with. I will never forget the lessons that he taught me and the examples he set for me. I am forever indebted to him for making me a better person in every way. I will miss talking sports with him, placing our bets on the Triple Crown races, Sharing jokes, him playing jokes on me and calling me all the nicknames he bestowed upon me which are
Coa Coa, Hop Sing and Hula Hips. It took a while to get used to them but he really enjoyed calling me those names, I will really miss hearing him call me. Today I told my wife that life right now feels like a team whose star quarterback is retired and the team isn't functioning very well but we have to keep fighting on so we can carry on his legacy and make him proud. Love You Dad
Katherine Alexander
May 27, 2010
To the family of Mr. Cartwright, I am so sorry to hear "Bill" has passed away. I met him at Cooks in Brawley. I was a cashier there for 3 years In the 70's. Bill was such a kind and warm man and you picked up on that right away. He could be tough when he had to but he was always tough for the right reasons. He was a big guy with a big heart and a wonderful smile. I have no doubt he will be missed so much by his family, friends, and the Imperial Valley. My thoughts and prayers are with all those whose lives Bill has touched.
Bobby,Heather,and Hailey Cartwright
May 27, 2010
We will really miss you and you will be remembered for many things. Your were a wonderful Husband, Dad, Grandfather, great grand father, and Grandfather in Law. Your were an amazing and gracious man. We love you and know that you are watching over all of us.
May 27, 2010
He was my Uncle Bill and he was a very special person to me. He had qualities that you don't see very often. He was a very good hearted person and we will miss him very much.
We can rejoice in the fact that he is with Jesus and we will all be together one day in heaven.
Mike and Sheila Whitley
Thomasville, GA
May 27, 2010
I knew Mr. Cartwright because of our connections in the grocery business, And He was always a pleasure to deal with. He always went out of his way for people. My heart goes out to his family. Jo DeAnda(Imperial Ca.)
Me and My Dad at Thanksgiving 2009
Teresa Cartwright Gow
May 27, 2010
My father was the greatest man I have ever met. Not many people know it but I was adopted by him and my Mom. The story that he told me was that on a sunday drive Mom convinced him to drive by a particular house in the hopes that if he saw me, he would want to keep me. Sure enough, Mom knew how to play Dad. Appearently all it took was one look and Dad decided I was coming home with them forever. If anyone mentions me being adopted now, I deny it. Ever since that moment he has been my best friend, my hero, the best father I could ever have wished for. He was always supportive, telling me I could do anything. The greatest gift he gave me, besides adopting me, was his unconditional love, and trust me I put him to the test on many occassions. I miss him so much I feel like my heart is breaking. I was truly blessed to share my life with him and it will never, ever be the same without him.
The Tharp Family
May 27, 2010
Earth's loss is Heaven's gain. Mr. C was one of the last great men to walk the face of earth. He was a true gentleman. The Imperial Valley will feel his loss for a long time. Our deepest sympathies to Mrs. C and the Cartwright family. Our thoughts & prayers are with you.
REBECCA VALDEZ
May 27, 2010
TO CHRISSY AND JOEY NAVARRO IM DEAPLY SORRY FOR THE LOSS OF YOUR GRANDFATHER ..I NO THAT THERE ARE NO WORDS TO MAKE YOU FEEL COMFORT AT THIS TIME ONLY TIME WILL HEAL A BROKEN HEART BUT NOW YOUR GRANDPA IS IN HEAVEN AND JUST REMEMBER ALL THE GOOD TIMES YOU GOT TO SHARE WITH HIM AND THE FAMILY AT GET TOGETHERS I LOVE YOU TWO AND THE BEAUTIFUL BABYS YOU TWO HAVE TOGETHER MIA, MASON ,AND LIL JOEY .....LOVE ALWAYS YOUR TIA BECKA AND TIO TINO ,NAOMI ,MARTIN ,DESTINEE ,AND MIGGIE..
Dan Ruley
May 27, 2010
I am sad to hear of the passing of Mr. Cartwright. He was a man who always had a smile. My heart goes out to his family.
Kylah Aguilera
May 27, 2010
Grandpa, I miss you so much!
Rosie Nava
May 27, 2010
Mr. Cartwright was a GREAT man! His memory will live long especially in the city of Imperial. I remember one day after riding about 15 miles on my bike, I stopped by the Family Market and put the only dollar I had into the vending machine for a bottle of water. The darn machine ate my dollar!! I was parched and so I went into to the store to begin explaining my situation to Bill to see if he could retrieve my dollar. He didn't hesitate. He didn't even let me finish explaining and as a matter of fact he didn't even say a word. He just turned around, walked over to his cooler and grabbed a fresh new bottle of water and handed to me. Ahhh!!! I never forgot that moment. I can still see his eyes and feel his benevolent nature. It was that benevolence that allowed me the creativity and freedom to embark upon my dream of creating the Family Treehouse where thousands of children have benefited. I've learned a lot from him over the years; about trust and friendship, about hard work and being a man of his word where a handshake was still considered a solid contract. I am thankful for having the opportunity; to have shared a moment or two with him and his family. I can say confidently that YES, he will be missed. But his legacy lives on! Let us celebrate his life!!! It was a good one and an example for us all.
May 27, 2010
Mrs. Cartwright we will miss seeing both of you at the LaHacienda every Wednesday night. God bless you and he will truly be missed he was a very kind and wonderful man.
Tom and Susie Ludlow, Imperial,Ca.
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