Search by Name

Search by Name

William Penney Obituary

William H. Penney

William (Bill) Penney, age 48, died on September 16 at Alta Bates hospital after a long illness. Born in Everett and raised in Marysville, Wa., a 1988 Stanford graduate, Bill enjoyed a successful career in finance at Drexel Burnham and Smith Barney and worked for Advent Software for over 16 years in Marketing and Business Development. He was a brilliant, funny, generous, big hearted person whose interests spanned architecture, travel, music, gardening, skiing and an incessant remodeling of his personal residences. One of his proudest accomplishments was transforming a Piedmont ranch style home into a Mediterranean villa showcased during the 2006 Children's Support League of the East Bay home tour. He is survived by siblings Michael, Edward, Susan and Joan and nieces and nephews, Alyson, Nathan, Claire, Daniel and Sam. He will be greatly missed by family and friends. Donations can be made in his name to the Alameda County Food Bank.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Sep. 19 to Sep. 21, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for William Penney

Not sure what to say?





benjamin sheppard

September 16, 2025

I know I'm late and never know if anyone out there will read this but this is a message to you william. You were my neighbor and you were my friend and at a time when I was lost and struggling to keep my non profit afloat you were there to encourage me and also to help with your generosity and asked for nothing in return but for us to continue to deliver for the kids of Oakland. Hope to see you at the lanesplitter in heaven. You sweet kind generous man. Sending my and condolences to you and anyone who was close to you.

Tom

September 13, 2023

Bill after a Biathlon, Summer 1988 (Kailua, HI) - Post Stanford

m p

September 13, 2020

gone but not forgotten

Bill's cabin ski day 2009

Tom Blamey

September 13, 2019

Miss you buddy.

Jp Kellar

October 13, 2014

Thank you for the time we had.

Dan Johnson

September 24, 2014

Dear Sue, Joan and family: So sorry to hear of Bill's passing this morning as I read the paper. It's been a lot of years since we all spent time together, may the Lord be your strength and hope as you grieve your loss.

Rosalie Mandich

September 23, 2014

Bill was a special student at MPHS who was always looking for ways to help others. His humor enhanced his writing, and as one of his teachers, I remember him fondly.

Amy Cruise

September 22, 2014

To me you are William and I will carry you in my heart as the kind and wonderful friend I know. MAy God hold those left behind in the palm of His hand.

September 22, 2014

Tom Blamey

September 22, 2014

In a world in dire need of exceptional people this is a great loss. Of the countless gifts Bill had, inspiration was one of his greatest - so many children to inspire...so few Bill's to inspire them - You will be missed.

Veronica Simmons

September 21, 2014

Bill you were an amazing person. You will be greatly missed but you will never be forgotten. My deepest heartfelt condolences to the family.

in 1970

mike penney

September 20, 2014

Brad Hovik

September 20, 2014

I was so sad to hear of Bill's passing. I have fond memories of sitting for Bill and all his brothers and sisters on the farm. He will be missed by all.

Stacey Kallinen

September 19, 2014

Oh my, Bill. This news just saddens me so. Such a kind brilliant person. Fond high school memories. I will be in San Francisco a week after your services. I will think fondly of you. Much love to your family,,,,Stacey Myers-Kallinen

Showing 1 - 14 of 14 results

Make a Donation
in William Penney's name

Memorial Events
for William Penney

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support William's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor William Penney's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more