William "Bill" Wilson

1943 - 2025

William "Bill" Wilson, 82 years old passed away peacefully in his home on May 11, 2025. He was born on April 2, 1943 in San Francisco, California. He graduated from Vallejo High School in 1961 and shortly after, entered the United States Army and served proudly. He returned to school and obtained his AS degree from Solano Community College.

Bill wanted to continue his public service and became a Deputy Sheriff for Napa County. It was during this time that he met the true love of his life, Bernadette "Bernie" Rardin. They married on September 8, 1971. In 1973 they welcomed their first and only child, Jennifer. Bill served the community as a Deputy Sheriff with great honor and integrity for 16 years when a career ending injury called him into retirement. Bill left behind a legacy of public service and unwavering commitment to protecting and helping his community. He was known for his calm demeanor and ability to deescalate intense situations. He was a fierce advocate for protecting the most vulnerable. After retirement Bill embarked on a new career as a Real Estate Broker with Bernie, and the dynamic duo worked together as partners for 40 years. They enjoyed traveling to Hawaii and Italy, and also taking cruises to Alaska, however their most favorite place was South Lake Tahoe to see the shows and try their luck at the slot machines. Bill was a well respected businessman and had been an owner of two real estate brokerage firms in Napa. He was strong willed and known to be direct in his dealings. His clients became family. Bill was generous to family and friends and a fierce advocate for his clients.

He loved sports. Football, basketball and golf were his favorites. Bill was an avid golfer and enjoyed time out on the course with friends. He especially enjoyed watching his grandchildren's activities of football, basketball, volleyball and swimming. Bill's grandchildren held a very special place in his heart and he showed great pride in all their accomplishments.

Bill absolutely loved dogs! He had many dogs growing up as a kid and through the years you would always see him with a dog by his side. The two most recently loved by him were a dachshund rat terrier mix, a brother and a sister, rescue dogs, that followed Bill wherever he went.

Through the years Bill became a man of strong faith, was always willing to help others, asked questions about his faith, and wanted to know more about Jesus. His faith motivated him to serve his family with great love. He was committed to making things right and sought forgiveness when it was needed. He was determined to make us all feel loved and understood.

Those who knew Bill will remember him for his great smile, generosity, and kindness. He was always willing to help if you had a problem. He was a good listener, had a rare gift of making others laugh and smile, leaving a lasting impact on all who crossed his path. Although Bill's physical presence may no longer grace our lives, his spirit will continue to inspire and uplift us. May his memory be a blessing, and may we carry forth his legacy of love and compassion in all we do. We know we will all meet again Dad, but until then, you will be greatly missed.

Bill is survived by his best friend and wife of 54 years, Bernadette Wilson, his daughter Jennifer Heun, his beloved son-in law David, his adored grandchildren Jacob and Abigail, his sister Patricia Vigil, numerous nieces and nephews, many extended family members, and many friends, his dogs Louie and Cinder, and his Grand-dog Sulley.

Honoring Bill's life:

A Visitation will be held at Tulocay Funeral Home in Napa, CA on Wednesday June 4, 2025 from 12:00-5:00pm and a Rosary will follow at 6:00pm at St. Apollinaris Catholic Church in Napa, CA,

A Funeral/Mass will be held on Thursday June 5, 2025 at 11:00am at St. Apollinaris Catholic Church

Lunch reception will take place after a private family burial at Tulocay's reception and Garden area.

For further information see: www.tulocaycemetery.org

In lieu of flowers please send any donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

He is now in the arms of our Lord, may he rest in eternal peace.