William L Hayford, 84, entered into rest on March 3, 2016.
He was born June 28, 1931 in Minneapolis, Minne.
He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Leora; his parents, Clarence and Francis Hayford; and his grandson, Richard William Hayford.
Bill is survived by his children, Rick (Cheryl) Hayford, Kelly Hayford, Todd Kemble (Barbara) Hayford, and Tracy (Alan) Alcaide; siblings, Robert and Dennis Hayford, and sister, Chery (Mike) Popiel; as well as three grandchildren, Joseph Modesto, Zharen Alcaide, and Zackary Kemble Hayford.
Bill was an engineer by trade, working for AT&T for 36 years, but was known best for his striking resemblance to Santa Claus which he truly embraced and was Santa year round. Bill’s resemblance was so remarkable he had an agent and would portray Santa in television commercials and print ads. He was affectionately given the title of the friendliest man alive by his family and friends. He had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome, with an incredible sense of humor and beautiful blue eyes he could light up any room. Bill was a veteran, serving his country proudly through the United States Air Force and he was stationed in Germany and North Africa. He had a passion for airplanes and even had his own pilot’s license. He was an explorer and loved taking his family on road trips to attend air shows and view historic monuments all around the country. Also Bill traveled all around the world, including Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Another thing Bill enjoyed was volunteering on the USS Hornet in Alameda. Among all of Bill’s attributes his family was most important and he loved them unconditionally. He will be truly missed by all who knew him.
P.L Fry & Son Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Hayford family. An online guest book is available for condolences at www.plfryandson.com (search Obituaries).