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William Hector von KleinSmid August 30, 1937 - March 16, 2014

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William (Bill) Hector von KleinSmid, 76, of Corona del Mar, California, died peacefully at his home March 16, 2014, surrounded by his devoted family. Bill is survived by his loving wife of 23 years, Marjorie; his beautiful daughters Kristen and Lauren, their mother Marilyn Randolph (Charles), his brother Ben, Margie’s children, Cindi Sanchez (Ron) with Anna Marie, Ronny and Jessica, Scott Campbell (Karry) with Sabrina and Veronica, and TomCampbell (Diana), plus many loving nieces, nephews and extended family.

Bill was born in Pasadena, California, and graduated from South Pasadena High School. He was very proud to have achieved the rank of Eagle Scout and applied their principles to his life. Bill was fortunate to attend the University of Southern California during the time that his Great Uncle, Rufus B. von KleinSmid was serving as the University’s Chancellor. Rufus was also past President of the University from 1921 to 1947. Bill was a loyal member of the fraternity, Kappa Alpha Order. Other activities included Trojan Squires and Trojan Knights. He graduated from USC in 1960 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Following graduation, Bill accepted a position as an Engineer and Research Developer at the Southern California Edison Company where he worked for 33 years. His work included Alternative and Renewable Power Projects and development of new energy sources including Solar, Methanol, and Gas Turbine power generation.

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Bill retired in 1992 and achieved his goal to earn his United States Coast Guard Captain’s License.

He was an avid sports enthusiast who enjoyed golf, motorcycling and yacht racing. He was a loyal fan of USC football and attended many games in the L.A. Coliseum. Bill enjoyed cruising the waters on his sailboats and powerboats and was actively involved in the Newport HarborYacht Club for over 50 years. He was also a member of the Lake Arrowhead and Balboa Yacht Clubs, serving as Commodore of the Lake Arrowhead Yacht Club in 1985.

Bill raced sailboats for many years in the Pacific Ocean and on Lake Arrowhead, including racing 24 times in the Newport to Ensenada race on his sailboats “Vivacious”, “Starshine”, “Moonshine”, and “Triple Threat” In the 1971 Ensenada race he won “The President of the United States Trophy”. Bill appreciated his many friends that crewed with him while racing. Yearly highlights were trips to Moonstone Cove and Lake Arrowhead along with cruising British Columbia, Alaska and the Virgin Islands.

After retirement, Bill revived the “Hot Rod” enthusiasm of his youth, enjoying his ‘32 Roadster, ’54 Ford Victoria, and his ‘83 Camaro.

Bill and Margie most enjoyed spending time with family and friends. He loved his family first, his many dogs, and his home. He enjoyed cooking, and treated his family and friends to many wonderful meals. He was famous for his Super Bowl parties and Chili Cook-Offs.

Bill will have the traditional sailor’s desire granted when his ashes are scattered at sea.

May Billy rest in peace - - he will be missed.

Comments and thoughts may be posted on Bill’s obituary site managed by Harbor Lawn Mortuary at their website: https://www.legacy.com/funeral-homes/california/costa-mesa/
harbor-lawn-mt-olive-memorial-park--mortuary/fh-3379.

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