William "Bill" Drinkwine

William (Bill) Alton Drinkwine was born on April 25, 1944, in Payette, Idaho. He later moved with his family to Long Beach, California, where he graduated from Long Beach Polytechnic High School. Soon after, Bill proudly served in the United States Army, achieving the rank of Sergeant.

   It was also in Long Beach where Bill met the love of his life, Wanda Arlene Drinkwine (née Mulder). They were married in Las Vegas, Nevada, in 1967 and shared a beautiful life together. Bill and Wanda were rarely apart and always devoted to one another.

   Bill was a loving and dedicated father to two sons, Brett Evan Drinkwine and Matthew Alton Drinkwine, and grandfather to three grandchildren, Emily Jane Drinkwine, Kate Allison Drinkwine, and Cameron Alton Drinkwine.

   Bill built a successful career as a truck driver and took great pride in being a member of the Teamsters Union. Known for his strong work ethic and integrity, Bill earned the respect of his colleagues and was always willing to lend a helping hand. He generously shared his knowledge and experience, often mentoring new employees and offering guidance and encouragement along the way and made many lifelong friends. He retired from Lucky Stores in 1998 at the age of 53.

   Upon his retirement, Bill achieved a lifelong goal when he and Wanda moved to the “piney woods” of Eureka, California. Bill discovered sailing in Eureka where he would often join a group of friends to sail the bay. He continued his hobby of target shooting and enjoyed tinkering on projects around the house. Bill was also a wonderful cook, known for his soups and signature breakfast gravy. Outgoing and full of life, he was a great conversationalist, a good pool player, and a decent card player who loved sharing stories and laughter with his many friends.

   Bill lived for 20 years with grace after being diagnosed with heart disease. Bill passed peacefully on December 21, 2025, with his devoted wife, Wanda, by his side. He will be remembered for his sense of humor and his unwavering love and loyalty for family and friends.