Obituary: William “Bill” Glasser (Aug. 22, 1918 – Nov. 11, 2011)

William “Bill” Glasser left us on Veterans Day 2011 to join the many sailors who have gone before him.

Bill was born in Geddes, S.D., where he was known as Bud, August 22, 1918, to Francis and William Glasser. At the age of 22 Bill left the family farm because the Navy promised him he would “see the world.” Bill served in the U.S. Navy for 20 years as a Chief Machinist Mate during World War II, Okinawa, Korea, and Vietnam on several ships including the USS Colorado.

In 1941 he met the love of his life, Margaret, at the Majestic Ballroom in Long Beach, Calif. After an 18-month courtship, they were married December 23, 1943, in San Francisco. Over the years and countless tours out to sea, Margaret and Bill grew their family to five children. They made homes in many places including China, Ill., San Diego, Napa, Bakersfield and Crescent City. Bill retired from the Navy in 1960. He worked for 13 years at the Mare Island Naval Shipyard in Vallejo, and retired at the age of 62. Bill was also a proud member of the Fleet Reserve for over 40 years.

He and his wife traveled the United States making friends and swapping stories wherever they went. They enjoyed visiting with their children and families. He and Margaret loved to fish and play dominoes together and enjoyed good ole country music. For years Bill would travel home to Geddes, where he would hunt pheasant. Bill had a smile that stretched ear to ear. His humor and one-liners always entertained. He and Margaret have truly been an inspiration to what true love really is, having spent 68 years together growing a beautiful family. Bill, Dad, Grandpa, will be missed and loved in the hearts he touched. His legacy is left behind with his children Patty, Bill Jr., Bob, Katie and Teri. He also leaves behind eight grandchildren: Jason, Jayleen, Shannon, Jayme, Jessie, Jerad, Darcy, and Russell, and nine great-grandchildren Brittney, Libbi, Bryson, Lauren, Kaden, Juliana, Maisy, Ryland, and Andie.

In keeping with Bill’s wishes, the family will be holding a private service. Condolences can be sent to Margaret Glasser at Addie Meedom House, 1445 Parkway Drive, Crescent City, CA 95531.

— Submitted by Wier’s Mortuary Chapel