William C. Smith

William C. "Bill" Smith - Passed away on February 6, 2008 in Petaluma. Devoted husband of Naomi Kohl-Smith of Petaluma and the late Alice P. Levine. Loving step-father of Ronald Kohl (Kim) of Bonita Springs, FL and William Karl Kohl (Joanne) of Copperas Cove, TX. Adored step-grandfather of 3 and step-great-grandfather of 8. Also survived by his step-grandson, Craig Timms, and by his caretaker, Albert Gonsalves. Age: 82 years. A Native of: Olean, NY. A Member of: Petaluma Lodge B.P.O.Elks 901, Petaluma Moose Lodge, and the American Legion. A 39 year resident of Petaluma, Bill worked as a mechanical engineer for the Merchant Marines and Wells Fargo. Known as "Wild Bill,""" he converted an electric cart into a boat, naming it the """USS Never Sail""" and rode it in full uniform in many parades. Bill also rode in the Butter & Eggs Day Parade in Petaluma and Veteran's Day Parade in Petaluma, Penngrove, and Tomales. Ever the """Sweet William,""" he passed out peppermint candy to children at Safeway during Christmas time. In his spare time, Bill and Naomi enjoyed traveling to Europe, playing bingo, and riding on the back of a 3-wheeler. He will be greatly missed. ""