William James (Bill) Bird, of Pasadena, passed away peacefully at home with family by his side on June 12, 2021, at the age of 92, after a brief illness. Bill was born to William and Norma Bird on October 6, 1928, in Alhambra. He attended South Pasadena-San Marino High School and graduated from University of California, Berkeley in 1950 with a degree in economics. He was a member of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity. While at Cal, fate took him to an off-campus event where he was smitten by Patricia Henderson, who was also attending Cal. The two were married in 1950, following graduation and shared a full and wonderful life together for 68 years, most of those in their Pasadena home.

After Bill served in the Army at Letterman General Hospital in San Francisco, the couple moved to Southern California and ultimately to Pasadena. There, Bill built a career he loved as a commodities broker in feed and grain, and he never retired. Bill was still working until he became ill in April of this year. He wrote for Feedstuffs Magazine since the 1950s. As a long-time member of the California Grain and Feed Association, he served as a dedicated member, president, and was instrumental in organizing and keeping the annual southern California Christmas party a popular event to this day.

Bill had an incredible passion for life, was active in the community and was a very loyal Cal fan. Bill participated in and had leadership roles with the Cal Berkeley Alumni/Southern Seas Association. He was a long-time member of The Valley Club, where he served as president and treasurer. Bill also belonged to the Oneonta Club where he served on the board and scholarship committee. The Anacapa Yacht Club and sailing out of Channel Islands Harbor was part of family life for many years. Bill loved travel and bringing people together. He orchestrated 58 annual GROUP fishing trips with business associates. He and Patty enjoyed decades of world travel with dear CAL friends (their UNDICI group), and in the 70 years since graduating, Bill attended all but one Big Game. Annual holiday trips organized by Bill are cherished memories for the family. Bill was a devoted, much adored and respected businessman, friend, and family man who inspired those around him. He had endless energy, always a twinkle in his eye and a big smile, and quick wit. He was a ready instigator of and participant in any gathering, and always wanted to be amongst the last to leave. He was truly a wonderful and beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, leader, organizer, and friend.

Bill was predeceased by his beloved wife Patty in 2018. He is survived by his daughter Sara Sayles; son John (Sarah) Bird; brother, Robert N Bird (SPHS '50); four grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.

San Gabriel Valley Tribune, July 18, 2021