William R. "Bill" Schmechel

William "Bill" R. Schmechel 1951- 2025 William "Bill" R. Schmechel, 74, of Rocklin, CA, passed away peacefully at home on October 15th after a courageous and lengthy battle with pancreatic cancer.

We were so fortunate to have Bill in our lives. To family, he was the steady source of unconditional love; to others a humorous, knowledgeable, humble man with integrity. Bill showed us what it meant to live with respect, kindness, curiosity, and compassion. He had a way of making everyone feel seen, valued, and loved - a gift to be carried always.

Born on January 25, 1951, in Torrington, WY, he grew up on the family farm, where he developed a lifelong knack for problem-solving and machinery. By 10 he was confidently steering the pickup down the highway to help move cattle. Bill's curiosity and resourcefulness were evident from an early age.

Talent and passion aligned; Bill was a gifted photographer in both personal and professional life. His career began at KGWN in Cheyenne, WY, and later worked for a production company in Denver. He went on to help establish the NBC affiliate in Chico/Redding, briefly worked as a cameraman in Salinas, and after being described as "one of the best hires made in 25 years," ultimately found his long-term professional home at the NBC station in Sacramento.

Until his retirement in 2017, Bill worked alongside his dear friends at KCRA as a News Photographer, Microwave & Satellite Truck Operator, and News Editor. His colleagues have shared he was "not only an excellent videographer and whiz with the live truck, but was an outstanding contributor to all phases of our news operation." Many wonderful tales of his professionalism, kindness, and his affable nature were shared during the weeks prior to his death.

Throughout his career, Bill covered a wide range of adventurous stories. He documented countless Sierra Nevada snowstorms, covered the funerals of Presidents Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan, and provided national coverage on the untimely death of Sonny Bono. He helped Mark Felt confirm his identity to the world as "Deep Throat" and even traveled inside the border of North Korea during the 1988 Olympics in Seoul. He often marveled that a farm kid from Wyoming would find himself present at these moments of historical significance. After retirement Bill traveled much of the US on back roads, documenting our beautiful country.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Fritz and Helen (Potts) Schmechel. He is survived by his brother, John Schmechel (Neva) of Cheyenne, WY; his sister, Mary Paxson of Nashville, TN; his niece, Beth Ward (Bryan) of Nashville; his nephews, Charles Schmechel (Heidi) of Salisbury, MD, and Fred Schmechel of Laramie, WY; as well as his great-nieces Manon, Tess, Asti, and great-nephew Spencer.

The best present giver, the best joke teller, the best Santa Claus, and the best co-pilot on a road trip. Though gentle and unassuming, Bill's quiet grace and genuine love shined so brightly and left a lasting glow on everyone around him.

Bill and his family send their deep gratitude and appreciation to all of the medical providers who cared for him over the course of his illness. Per Bill's wishes, no services will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.