William (Bill) Charles Gibson, 68, passed away unexpectedly on December 5, 2025, in Santa Cruz from a heart attack. Bill’s final moments were spent outdoors with friends at the DeLaveaga Disc Golf Course. He was deeply loved and cherished until the end, and we take comfort in knowing that he did not suffer in his final moments.

Bill was born in Walnut Creek, California, on February 11, 1957, to Geraldine (Geri) and William Gibson. He moved to Santa Cruz as a young adult, where he studied Marine Biology at UCSC. Bill’s love for the ocean persisted throughout his life and was reflected in his studies, frequent trips to the beach, tidepooling, and time spent fishing on the ocean. Bill worked as a general contractor for over 30 years and was the owner of Kestrel Construction until his unofficial retirement.

Bill was an avid traveler who loved birdwatching, photography, fishing, and disc golf, but more than anything, he loved connecting with others. Anyone who met Bill was struck by his ability to make them feel listened to and welcome. He had a gift for talking to a stranger as if they had known each other since childhood, leaving a lasting impression. Bill was not someone who wasted life — he lived it fully and never shied away from adventure. He traveled to over 13 countries and spoke passionately about both travel and protecting the world we live in. He was an advocate for human rights and social justice and always did his best to lead with kindness. Bill was kind, outgoing, passionate, and self-reflective. He cried easily and loved deeply. He was a role model, boss, contractor, athlete, traveler, nature lover, friend, and a devoted son, father, brother, and partner.

Bill leaves behind a loving community of friends and family. He is survived by his many friends; his nieces and nephews; his siblings John, Sue, and Margaret; his mother, Geri; his three children, Gavin, Kaila, and Brayden; and his beloved girlfriend, Claudia. Bill was preceded in death by his brother Bobby and his father, William.

Bill’s body will return to the earth and universe from which it came and will continue to be part of the larger system that connects all things. His soil will be used to plant a magnolia tree on his property, which, as it grows, will provide shade for loved ones, nectar for pollinators, oxygen for the earth, and a home for many creatures.

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/william-charles-gibson/obituary/

Copy