William Patrick Curley, III

William “Bill” Patrick Curley III of Mission Viejo, CA, a respected attorney and longtime public servant, entered eternal rest on September 8, 2025, at the age of 68. Bill was beloved for his humorous spirit, kind heart, and lifelong dedication to his family, friends, and community.

Bill was born on February 19, 1957, in Grand Rapids, MI, and was the eldest child of William P. Curley, Jr. and Lois Curley. The family moved to California in 1973, where he later graduated from Glen A. Wilson High School in Hacienda Heights, CA, in 1975. Bill went on to earn his B.S. in Anthropology and Geography (cum laude) from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, in 1980, and worked as a city planner for the City of Pomona from 1979 to 1986, which sparked his interest in municipal law. He progressed into working with the planning commission and on redevelopment issues. In 1986, he earned his Juris Doctorate (cum laude) from Western State University, Fullerton, and served as Deputy City Attorney for the City of Pomona from 1986 to 1988. Bill spent more than three decades serving cities through various law firms. He proudly served as the city attorney of Mission Viejo for more than 20 years, and ultimately became a partner at Harper & Burns, LLC, combining his deep expertise in municipal law with his signature wit and down-to-earth manner.

While building his career, Bill met and married Kari Atkins in 1980, and together they raised three children: William, Jessica, and Zachary. Bill was a devoted grandfather and decorated his office almost exclusively with their drawings and paintings. Bill was also a devoted son and brother, sharing a close bond with his brothers Patrick and Michael, and caring for his mother in her later years. A lifelong Lutheran, his faith was central to his life and grew even stronger in his final years.

Bill is remembered not only for his sharp legal mind but also for his quick wit and quirky sense of humor, qualities that brought levity to even the most serious situations. He combined professionalism with a down-to-earth quality that made him approachable to all, often insisting that shorts were suitable city council attire. His family and friends will also remember his fondness for his nearly 30-pound cat, Mr. Whiskers, who was never far from his side in his later years.

Bill is survived by his brothers, Patrick Curley and Michael Curley; his former wife, Kari Curley; his three children, William Curley, Jessica Curley, and Zachary Curley; his three grandchildren, Addison, Gregory, and Aurelia; along with countless other friends, colleagues, and loved ones who will miss him deeply.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the LCEF General Fund.