William Conrad Peters

William (Bill) Conrad Peters passed away on September 29th, after a long, slow-growing cancer quickly accelerated. He was surrounded by his loving wife and children, keeping his wit and wisdom until the very last. He is survived by his beautiful wife of 64 years, Lynn, and children - Lynndi (Fred) Enright, Julie (Kenn) Eversole, Will (Maria) Peters, Hans (Debbie) Peters;13 grandchildren, Eric and Trevor Enright; Kristi, Kim, Jared, Karalea, John, Josh, Jake and Jeff Eversole; Bill and Michael Peters; Nick Peters, 5 great grandchildren and sister-in-law, Eileen. His brother, Harry (Boze) preceded him in death in 2006. He was born in San Francisco in 1922 and raised on the family ranch in Ben Moore Valley, between Lakeport and Hopland, CA. He boarded out for school in Ukiah, CA for the first few years and was home schooled one year. Then rode his own horse 5 miles, each way to a one room school house from 5th grade until high school. He boarded out again for school in Ukiah until he could drive the family car to Hopland for his senior year of high school. Bill was attending Aviation Mechanic School for Instruments in Sacramento until WWII broke out, at that point he joined the service and became a pilot. He flew the China/Burma Hump and became a highly decorated Officer. After an honorable discharge he continued to have more adventures, worked various jobs, then purchased farmland near Montague in 1948. Also in 1948, Bill married his sweetheart, Evelyn (Lynn) Whitcomb in Ukiah. They traveled to Montague for their honeymoon and over the years often said "they were still on their honeymoon". The farmland had no roads, fences, trees or buildings but expanded with hard work and forward-thinking. He had outstanding management skills. Bill fulfilled his dream of being a successful farmer and rancher. He considered life, even challenges, 'adventures' and had a positive outlook no matter what. Throughout his life he received many honors and accolades, as well as a leader in Directorships and Presidencies of prestigious organizations. Recently he was asked, "of all the many things you've accomplished and enjoyed your life, what do you consider your finest achievement?" He didn't hesitate, with a smile, he emphatically replied, "Family"! Bill exemplified total integrity, hard work, a true gentleman, a respecter of opinions and was very diplomatic and honest. He was definitely a giver to others, he believed in passing on his values to his children and grandchildren and why those values were important. He worked beside his children and grandchildren teaching, instructing and was a living example to his family. Bill met death with grace and dignity. He told his family he would be leaving for his next adventure, he was ready and had finished what he had wanted to do. He will be greatly missed by his family and many friends. A Celebration of Life party will be held in his honor on Saturday, November 12th, 2011 from 12:00 Noon until 3:00 PM at the Montague Community Hall. If desired, donations may be made to Madrone Hospice, 255 Collier Circle, Yreka or an organization of your choice.

William Conrad Peters

December 17, 1922 - September 29, 2011