In Memory

William 'Bill' Moritz - Class Of 1936

William 'Bill' Moritz

William Perry Moritz passed away on September 26 1999 in Camarillo after a short battle with cancer. Bill was 81 years old. Bill leaves among others his wife Marguerite (Boots) Saunders Moritz (SPHS '37) to whom he was married for nearly 59 years. He was the father of two sons William Jr. a resident of Ventura; and older son Michael who was killed in Vietnam in June 1965. Michael who was heavily decorated was one of Ventura County's first casualties in that war.

Bill was born on July 2 1918 in Paonia Colorado. His parents were Harry and Helen Moritz. He grew up in South Pasadena where he met and later married Boots in 1940. During World War II he served in the United States Navy in the Pacific Theater specializing in communication electronics. Following the war Bill and Boots moved their family to Camarillo and then in 1952 to Somis where their two young sons could be free to roam the countryside.

For several decades and until his retirement Bill was employed by Raytheon Corp. and worked at its facility near Point Mugu. He helped to develop and perfect various aspects of missile technology particularly guidance systems. He was dedicated to his work and was known as a reliable man of his word. Bill was also an avid self-taught engineer who loved to build or overhaul anything. He substantially reconstructed the family home in Somis more than once.

Bill was an active father who dedicated many hours to the Somis 4-H Club where he taught electronics to many young enthusiasts. He particularly instilled in his sons the value of hard work and commitment earning their respect for his sound advice and patience. When his youngest son showed signs of being a reluctant student in the third grade Bill agreed to hold back his son's grade advancement making clear that learning had to accompany play. For this his son was eventually very grateful.

The tragic death of his older son Michael in Vietnam had a dramatic impact of Bill's life. Bill became a dedicated Christian and his religious convictions were matched with deeds. For over a decade following his retirement he ministered to the mentally disabled and infirm at Camarillo State Hospital earning a reputation as a powerful example of Christian charity. Bill was active in church affairs and was a member of St. Columba's Episcopal Church in Camarillo for nearly 50 years where he served as its warden on three different occasions. His life and work inspired all that knew him whether or not they were Christians.

Bill is survived by his wife; son William and his wife Marjorie and their children Matt and Megan both of whom are students at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Isabel Head of Carmel; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his son Michael, Bill was predeceased by his sister Helen  Moritz Wotkyns (SPHS '35).

Ventura County Star, September 29, 1999