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William Salvatore Festa
1933 - 2014
William Salvatore Festa
1933 - 2014
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1933
DIED
2014
William Salvatore Festa Obituary
Bill learned the value of work very early in his life. At the age of 6, he would deliver oil to homes, on cold winter mornings, to help support his family. Bill shined shoes at the age of 9, worked on the docks at the age of 13 and by the age of 14 joined his brother in Kentucky to work on a race track; all while sending his earnings home to his family. When the Korean War broke out, Bill and his brother decided to join the Navy. Bill was Honorably discharged in 1953. After Bill was discharged from the Navy, his life took him down many paths of work. Bill attended and graduated from barber/hairstylist school in 1959. He owned and operated several hair salons through the years and also found his niche as a car dealer/salesman. Through his humble and tragic beginnings, Bill became a successful business owner and entrepreneur.
Bill had many talents, hobbies and passions. He played the saxophone, ran marathons, loved to dance and cook, built homes and was a major sports fan. Bill was also a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His passion for life, hard work and love of family will forever be a part of his legacy.
Bill met his "eternal sweetheart" in 1973 and on July 18, 1974, they began to build their family together. Bill was preceded in death by his parents and siblings and one son, Michael, who passed away at birth. Bill is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Chris and their seven children: Desiree Francis (John), Dion Festa (Brandy), Jeff Grant, Daran Festa (Paula), April Scherick (Justin), Tony Festa and Steven Festa (Shawna). Bill was also blessed with 15 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.
Funeral service was held Friday, July 11, 2014, at the Church of Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints, 306 E. Avenue L, Calimesa, California. Interment followed at San Gorgonio Memorial Park, 2201 N. San Gorgonio Avenue, Banning, California.
Arrangements were entrusted to Weaver Mortuary, Beaumont, California.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Diane Nottingham
September 23, 2014
When I think of my sweet friend, Bill Festa, I think of his heart which was as big as all outdoors. He was so kind and unbelievably generous and thoughtful and so very fun, always teasing. His family came first in his life and he loved them all with all of his heart; every one of them. I have never seen such open love for everyone. We had so many good times with our families spending a lot of time together and holidays etc. I miss those times, but children grow up and families grow and nothing stays the same. Aren't memories wonderful!!! The Lord has a good one in Bill, and I am sure he is busy doing great things. Love you forever.
Tony Festa
August 15, 2014
Dad,
you were always there for me always in my corner, always attending my school field trips and always supported me in everything I did. Even would go with me on my midnight snake hunts in the desert. You were so proudbof me when I served my mission in Italy. I know that we'll be together again as an eternal family in heaven. I miss you dad and love you lots.
Steven Festa
August 15, 2014
Im so grateful to have had the best Dad in the world I could not have asked for anything more I miss you Dad. Words cannot explain the feelings I feel when I think of your face or the memories only you and I shared I love you forever my best friend.
Jeff Grant
August 10, 2014
Most people have 1 father in life, I'm the lucky one that had 2 of the greatest. You are definitely missed, rest in peace.
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Janet Francis Freeman
August 8, 2014
Dear Bill, I still picture in my mind the day many years ago when my brother John Francis married your amazing daughter Desiree and her three little boys, and I marvel at how far they've all come since then. They were a wonderfully matched set and we have been so fortunate to have Desiree, Andrew, Clint, Scott, and their wives and children in our lives. Family has always been very important to the Francis family, and it's clear from the many tributes to you that you valued your family and greatly influenced Desiree in her love of family. May you rest in peace and may all of your loved ones find peace in their wonderful memories of time spent with you.
Scott, Sarah, and Libby Chester
August 8, 2014
I will always remember our times togeather and laugh to myself thinking of the jokes you'd tell and feel blessed to have had the presence of your spirit, we love you grandpa, we will miss you!
Dad Laughing up a storm being caught eating cupcakes!
August 7, 2014
Few Favorite Pics of Dad . . .
Andrew Chester
August 7, 2014
I will always miss my favorite Grandfather. I wish I could have spent more time with him, but will never forget the times I did like the trips to the lake. Or the summers I spent with my grandparents both in Cali and Arizona. Or when grandpa and I worked the hotdog stand in kingman at the auction. He was very patient, godly, funny, loving, and a rolemodel for all to follow. Everyone he encountered was left with a lasting impression. I will always miss him but never forget him.
August 3, 2014
Des, May your heart be filled with good memories and special times.
Mickey and Jo Ann Francis
Nancy Hall
August 1, 2014
Dave and I always admired Bill's love for the Lord and his family. We met Bill and Chris when we moved next door to Chris's dad Billy the Kidd. When Bill and Billy got together, it was hard to keep from laughing. They were both such a hoot!
Bill was such a caring individual. He liked to help people find cars through the automobile brokerage. We so appreciated what he did for us. I would often see Bill walking in his neighborhood in the early mornings and was so impressed at his commitment to walk or run everyday so he could be there for his family as long as possible.
Bill's life experiences as an entrepreneur embraced his abilities to always find work no matter what the job and have a good attitude. He made friends wherever he went and it was obvious he loved life.
His legacy is evident in his children and will be remembered in years to come. What a great guy. He is already missed.
Jodie Lewis
July 28, 2014
Bill I would like to thank you for including me into your family. I will never forget the wonderful vacations that we all took together. I remember once we were riding & you were bucked up over the saddle horn by Cody. I was so amazed that you were able to press down on his neck and jump back over the horn and into the seat. You were such an amazing and unique man.
April Scherick
July 26, 2014
Dad, you have always always been my biggest fan. You taught me to love without limits and that all things are possible (with hard work, of course.) I love you. Your, Chick-Chick
April Scherick
July 26, 2014
Dad, you have always always been my biggest fan. You taught me to love without limits and that all things are possible (with hard work, of course.) I love you. Your, Chick-Chick
Parr Family
July 26, 2014
We love and miss you Bill...your legacy will be carried on for years to come by the awesome family and extended family you leave behind...God be with you till we meet again
jamie festa
July 25, 2014
I'm sorry to bother it family in this time of mourning but my husband says Mr Festa was an uncle of his ...my husband hasn't been able to get in contact with that side of the family since his father Edward Festa died my husbands name is Brian Festa and would like to get in touch with his father's side of the family of any of u know my husband or his father please contact us at 909 809 4661 my name is Jamie u can email us at [email protected] as well ...thank u again and I'm truly sorry for ur loss :(
Teresa Garza
July 20, 2014
It's ur time to rest now Mr. FESTA!!
Daran Festa
July 20, 2014
Thank You Dad for always being there for all of us!! I will always remember your enthusiam and hard work forever. You gave me the never quit attitude, and made me the man I am today. The love and happiness you had when your family was near will be missed. I will take comfort in that smile forever!!
Roann Kidd
July 20, 2014
I will miss seeing Bill by Chris's side whether it was in the kitchen making his yummy meatballs & sausages, or at Lake Powell having fun on the beach, or watching his adoring looks at his bride. His zest for life was infectious and I loved his warmth and affection for all his family and friends. The last time I saw Bill was at his home a few week ago and when we arrived he motioned for me to come and sit by him so we could visit and watch our crazy pup dogs play. I will always cherish that visit. We love you Bill. Roann Kidd & Sue Fusselman
Jacob Festa
July 20, 2014
Grandpa i miss you,you where always making me laugh i will miss playng poker with you,holidays wont be the same with out you love you grandpa.
Brad Grant
July 18, 2014
Grandpa Bill~ always so fun & happy! I'll miss every holiday family party with you the most... I love and miss you always.
Nichole Festa
July 18, 2014
Grandpa your silliness is going to be missed. You were always making everyone crack up with your little songs and dances, but don't worry my dad is becoming more and more like you. He'll make sure everyone is laughing for you. Love and miss you always, your NikNik <3
John Francis
July 17, 2014
Bill, I will miss you. Things were always popping around you. I have the privilage of being married to your oldest daughter, Desiree, and was proud to introduce you as her father. I have enjoyed many vacations at your home and was always made to feel as if I were one of the family. Chris, you know Desiree and I will always be available if/when you need us.
Amy Cannon
July 17, 2014
Bill, I would thank you for raising such a wonderful daughter, Desiree, she is the best friend a girl could ask for. I know she loved you and you will be deeply missed.
Blake Grant
July 17, 2014
Grandpa you will never be forgotten! All of the hilarious times we had together, your nicknames for everybody and just everything you have taught me to be a better person! Your memories are forever, I love you!
Judy Anderson
July 16, 2014
Chris, I am so sorry for the loss of your husband. I didn't know him, but I know if he was married to you, he was a very special and very lucky man. I know he will be missed by everyone. May God bless your family and bless him on his journey.
Judy Anderson
He Made the World a Better Place!
Tammy Gaston
July 16, 2014
The world was blessed with you in it...Now those on the other side are being blessed! Oh how I wish I had known you! I can certainly see why Desi is the wonderful woman and friend that she is. I LOVE your smile. It just makes me happy to see the picture. I can imagine what it would have been like to have known you. I am sorry for the loss that your family must feel right now but confident that you will be there with that beautiful smile and a great big hug when next you see them!
Melody Sparks
July 16, 2014
I did not know Bill. I am a co worker with Chris. I my self am a widow and I promise to be here for you and help you along the way. Love you y Friend...
Chris Festa
July 16, 2014
I can't believe you are gone, even though only
until my time on earth is over and we will be together forever. You were the best husband, father and friend anyone could have and you gave all your heart and soul to you family. Until we dance again, Love and miss you. Christabelle
Patti & Danny and Family Hinojosa
July 16, 2014
Thank you Bill for the wise words you gave me at a young age, I still live by them. You will be missed. Thank you for making my cousin Chris smile all those years.. My heart and love go out to his family/ friends.
Lisa Grant
July 15, 2014
You were once my father in law but have always been my friend. I've always admired your unconditional love. I miss you. Love, Leasle
Desiree Francis
July 15, 2014
Dad, you were my first love, my hero, and a friend to all who knew you. We miss you so much, but know that you are totally at peace. We were blessed to be loved by you. Until we are together again . . .Love always, Your Daughter Desiree Linda Festa Francis
Paula Festa
July 14, 2014
Bill you will be missed. I just wanted to thank you for raising your son Daran to be just as vibrant, caring, loving, silly and thoughtful as you were. I am truely blessed to be a part of your awesome family. See you in heaven.
Dennis & Shirley Bellotti
July 12, 2014
Goodbye Bill. You will be missed by all your family and all your friends especially your Poker buddies. We were all so glad we had the opportunity spend one more night with you only a week before you left us. May God bless you and your family. REST IN PEACE BILL!
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1177 BEAUMONT AVE, Beaumont, CA 92223
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