William Henry Spurgeon
William Henry Spurgeon (Will) passed away on July 12th, 2023 in Kirkland, WA at the age of 68. He died peacefully in the home he shared with his family, and he was surrounded by his children and grandchildren at the end of his life. His 16-year battle with prostate cancer demonstrated a determination and courage that personified Will throughout his life, and his unending persistence in the face of a terminal illness allowed him time to build many valuable memories with his friends and family.
A long-time resident of California, Will moved to Washington in 2021. He also spent much of his time at his home away from home in Tamarack, Idaho which was the perfect backdrop for his favorite hobbies including skiing, bike riding, water sports, and hiking. Will dedicated his life to his family (and dogs) and was a hard worker. For decades his career was in the international export business for major food brands and later in the prostate cancer realm, evaluating research proposals and leading support groups for survivors.
Will leaves behind his son, Liam, and daughter, Heidi, as well as his son-in-law, Robert, and two grandchildren, Robert and Selena. There will be a memorial service to come in the Bay Area, California. Will’s ashes will be spread in the Pacific Ocean where he enjoyed sailing and watching many beautiful sunsets with his family.
6 Responses to “William Henry Spurgeon”
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Will was such a wonderful man blessed with a caring and compassionate heart. His unconditional love and devotion to his family was exceptional. I am grateful to have known him. Please except my heartfelt prayers and comforting hugs.
Will was my best friend for over 55 years. We shared so many wonderful experiences ranging from traveling Europe on $5/day in our teens to sitting on his porch in front of the fire at his home in Tamarack, reliving a lifetime of memories. There was hardly a day when we didn’t talk or exchange text messages. I feel blessed to have had such a wonderful husband, father and man as a dear friend. His passing will leave a void that can never be filled. Thank you Will, God Bless and rest in peace.
I have known Will since we were eight years old, growing up around the corner from each other. He was the best man in my first wedding. Life presented us both with many challenges. I am sad knowing that his journey is over. Sending love and hugs to Heidi and Liam. Heidi, I was there when your dad brought you home from the hospital and your mom was so sick. I remember your mom first thinking she was pregnant. I understand that you both took excellent care of him during his illness. That is an incredibly difficult job but one done from the heart. Andrea, as always, I am here for you.
Love Always,
Christy
Your father may have passed on, but his love and legacy will live forever. He had a positive influence on the lives of his family, friends, and his community. He was vey brave to run a support group for prostate cancer as he was dealing with his own survival of cancer. I have a very special memory of sitting with Will after bringing him a journal when he first found out he had cancer . We had a very nice supportive talk on how we both were dealing with cancer. Please accept our sincere condolences for your loss.
We are so saddened by the loss of Will, our good friend of 30 years – a dreamer and insatiable adventurer. Our first decade of friendship was defined mostly by parenting and kids’ activities – games, recitals, Crab Feeds, and parent socials. The second decade by absolute fun (certainly for me) – rollerblading SF’s Embarcadero and the Iron Horse and Crystal Springs trails, nighttime sails to Sam’s in Tiburon (often paired with “last call” at Brennans). skiing, kayaking, trips to Tamarack, the wildest of 50th Birthday parties, camping (and performing) at the Yellow Pine Music and Harmonica Festival. The third decade somehow demanded we grow up, deal with health issues and approach life in an entirely new way. We are happy that Will had you, Liam and Heidi, during his last days. This must be so difficult. He sent us the most thoughtful note, received yesterday. We’d like to consider it his “change of address” notice. He will forever be in our hearts and minds.
Love, Bob and Penny
Thank you all for the wonderful notes and for sharing these memories of our Dad.