I coach, and was talking sport with Bill. While explaining how I try to get the most from my athletes, he dropped this all time line on me:

Randy, you can’t win the Kentucky Derby on a donkey.

So true buddy Bill, so true. One thing I loved about Bill was the truth. Bill kept it real whether you wanted to hear it or not.

The boys all went on a horseback camping trip, and I got the invite. There are 3 things I remember. 

Getting to drive home, and had no permit

Jeff getting bucked off

And, I do t think that a large human should ride that little horse

I’m deeply saddened to hear of Bill’s passing. He was truly one of a kind, a man who carried his roles as an attorney, Marine, and father with remarkable integrity and heart (he tried to hide that aspect of himself but it showed anyway to those of us who knew him). In the legal community, especially in family law, where tensions can run high, he stood out for his ability to connect with everyone, he was a unicorn. He earned respect not just for his skill, but for the way he treated people with fairness, humor, and genuine understanding. He never got emeshed with his clients or their cases which is a trait to be admired.

His intelligence was evident in everything he did, but it was his wit that made him unforgettable. I had a case against Bill, I had never worked so hard on a case. Bill breezed into the courtroom and was so prepared (I know he didn’t spend as much time as I had preparing) and basically cleaned my clock. What was so inspiring about Bill is that he took that in stride and didn’t flaunt his success. He had a way of bringing lightness into even the most difficult moments, reminding those around him that compassion and professionalism can go hand in hand.

Above all, he was a devoted father. It was so obvious to everyone that he loved his children deeply and showed up for them in the ways that mattered most. My daughter Leslie and Lionel were on the same water polo team in high school, Leslie was the only girl on the team. Bill was always at the games, so proud of Lionel. Lionel was such a gentleman that it was hard for him to go hard on Leslie like some of the other players, that made for some funny times on the pool deck. Bill’s dedication, that steady presence, is a legacy that will continue through them.

He will be greatly missed not only for his accomplishments, but for the kindness, laughter, and humanity he brought into the lives of so many. My thoughts are with his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Lionel- I remember you - at 2 /1/2 years old holding your handsome tall Marine father’s hand at the J&J pre-school at Camp Pendleton.  He was so very proud of you and your wonderful Mother also!  Love watching you become an adult with a wonderful wife and family!  Sending love to all. 

Marty Quill Sullivan