William Frederick Berry

1941 - 2025

William Frederick Berry
04/12/1941 - 01/02/2025
William F. Berry, affectionately known as "Bill," passed away on January 2, 2025, in Stanford, CA, at the age of 83. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle and cherished friend, Bill will be remembered for his unwavering love, adventurous spirit, and generous heart.
Born on April 12, 1941, in San Francisco, California, Bill grew up in Palo Alto and later in Portola Valley. A proud graduate of Menlo-Atherton High School, he went on to earn his degree from San Jose State University. Bill began a distinguished career in investment banking with Crocker Bank, later continuing his work with Wells Fargo, where he earned the respect and admiration of colleagues and clients alike.
Bill embraced his retirement with the same passion and drive that defined his professional life. He pursued his love of exploration, spending time mining for gold in CA, AK, and the Yukon. A dedicated philanthropist, Bill served on various boards and actively supported projects close to his heart, including the preservation of California's wetlands. His efforts earned him a well-deserved place in the California Waterfowl Hall of Fame.
A man of many talents and interests, Bill loved traveling with his beloved wife, Nella, and found joy in their time spent together in Mount Shasta, Indian Wells, Western Canada, and their longtime home in Portola Valley. He was an avid golfer and a wicked pickleball player. Bill enjoyed playing Bridge with Nella and friends from around the country online. He especially enjoyed spending hours in his gardens and much to Nella's chagrin, he wore good clothes that didn't stay nice for long!
Bill is survived by his devoted wife, Nella; his children, Koryne Smith (Taylor) and Derek Berry (Joanne); and his cherished grandchildren, Emily, Lindsey, Liam, Nathan, Jordyn, and Jessie. He is also survived by his sisters, Wanlyn Bejach, Winifred Lowell, and Carol Berg. He was preceded in death by his parents, Othmar and Velda Berry.
In the final months of his life, Bill faced a fast-moving leukemia diagnosis with extraordinary courage and grace, inspiring those around him.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill's memory may be made to myBlueDots, a cause that reflects his enduring commitment to helping others. Donations can be made at http://mybludots.org/
Bill's life was a testament to the power of love, perseverance, and generosity. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew him.
Memorial Service will be held January 24, 2025, Trinity Episcopal Church, 330 Ravenswood Ave., Menlo Park CA 94025, Reception following.