Bill Doerksen, age 85, passed away on May 27, 2015, at Grace Home in Livingston. He was born in Dos Palos, California, in 1929, the beloved son of John B. and Margaret Doerksen and brother to Florence. Bill lived in Escondido, California until the age of ten when his family moved and began dairy farming in Denair.

He attended Denair Schools and graduated in 1947. Bill proudly served in the army during the Korean War, earning a bronze star. He spent some months during the war recuperating in the hospital in Japan before returning to action in Korea.

Following his time in the service, he returned to the family farm and married Virginia (Coochie) Patterson with whom he enjoyed 62 years of a wonderful life together. He attended Modesto Junior College where he studied agriculture while learning the dairy business from his father. In time, he took over the family dairy. Over the years, they welcomed their three children (Jennifer, Matthew, and Gretchen).

Bill served on the Emanuel Hospital Board as well as several terms on the Denair Unified School District Board of Trustees. Most important to him were the many service positions he held at Beulah (Turlock) Covenant Church where he was an active member. Some of these include church chairman, Sunday school teacher, and AWANA leader.

His was a life very well lived, and he was loved and admired by many. He is survived by his loving wife, Virginia (Coochie) Doerksen; children, Jennifer Doerksen, Matthew Doerksen, and Gretchen Doerksen Marquette; grandchildren, Alexandria Mccallum, Catherine Boryk, Antonia Toomey, and Madeleine Marquette; great grandchild, Ezekiel Mccallum; sister, Florence (Doerksen) Garrett; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In honor of Bill’s life, contributions may be given to Grace Home, 13435 Peach Avenue, Livingston, California 95334 for whom we are so appreciative for all the comfort they gave to him and to our family.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held on Wednesday, June 3. Please contact a family member for specific details.