April 1, 1960 – February 19, 2026

William Andrew Thiry, known to most as Bill, passed away suddenly on February 19, 2026, in Pine Grove, California.

He leaves behind his two daughters, Amanda Thiry and Ashley Williams; his stepsons, Jason and Joe Ables; and six wonderful grandchildren: Presley, Kambria, Ashton, Dawson, Nathan, and Andy. Bill is also survived by his mother, Fran Thiry; his godmother, Linda Henry; and his two younger sisters, Kathy Kramer and Lori Cheyne.

Bill was born in Chicago, Illinois, on April 1, 1960, to Bill Sr. and Frances Thiry. As the oldest of three children, he later relocated with his family to Newark, California. There he began his journey with the Boy Scouts and proudly earned the rank of Eagle Scout in 1976 with his Father and Scout Master, Bill Sr. Two years later Bill graduated high school from Moreau Catholic High School in Hayward, California in 1978.

In his younger years, Bill was full of adventure and always seeking excitement. He loved the outdoors, muscle cars, drag racing, heavy metal music, Chicago Cubs baseball, and scouting. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to become an owner-operator in the trucking industry.

Later, Bill met Diana, the mother of his two daughters, and together they started their family while also helping raise Diana’s sons, Jason and Joe. They began their life together in Fremont, California, where their first daughter, Amanda, was born on July 4, 1988. They later moved to Valley Springs, California, where they purchased a home and welcomed their second daughter, Ashley, on June 10, 1991.

Bill was always deeply involved in the lives of his children. Whether serving as a Scout leader or a soccer coach, he loved being present for their activities. He spent years coaching his daughter Amanda in soccer, leading teams to traveling tournaments and championships. Even after Amanda graduated, Bill continued coaching and was later named Varsity Coach for the Calaveras Redskins Girls Soccer Team.

Throughout his career, Bill served as the general manager for several trucking companies. Eventually, he returned to his entrepreneurial roots and founded Bill’s Window Cleaning and Handyman Service, serving the greater Amador County area, with much of his work centered in Ione, California.

Bill loved being an active member of his community and volunteered at numerous events. After moving to Ione, he fell in love with the historic Preston Castle. Over the years, he became deeply involved with the Preston Castle Foundation. His favorite seasons were Halloween and Christmas, when he was responsible for decorating the grand dining room for the annual Halloween Haunt and Christmas events. With his creativity and imagination, Bill had a special gift for bringing spaces to life.

Bill also served as Vice President of the Ione Business and Community Association (IBCA). He actively participated in meetings, social events, fundraisers, fireworks booth sales, and local parades. In addition, Bill served as Charter Organization Representative for Boy Scout Troop 477 and Pack 477 in Ione. He loved mentoring scouts and helping them build skills and memories that would last a lifetime.

Anyone who knew Bill knew he had many hobbies and passions. Whether it was Halloween decorations, pirate-themed collectibles, Pirates of the Caribbean, the Blue Angels, rock concerts, music, or hunting for unique treasures, Bill approached everything with enthusiasm.

One place in particular held a special place in his heart—Yosemite National Park. Bill often referred to Yosemite as his “happy place.” An experienced hiker and talented photographer, he loved capturing the breathtaking beauty of the park.

Every year, Bill would spend a week-long solo stay at Housekeeping Camp in Yosemite Valley. Family, friends, and fellow scouts often joined him during these trips, creating memories through hikes, nature walks, kayaking, bike rides through the valley, campfires, camping, and even helping clean up the park.

Because Yosemite meant so much to him, Bill’s ashes will be spread over Yosemite Valley so that he may rest forever in the place he loved most.

Bill was loved and cherished by many. He left a lasting impression on countless people and brought warmth, charisma, and enthusiasm to everything he did. His loss has deeply saddened all who knew him, but his spirit and the memories he created will live on in the hearts of those he touched.

A Celebration of Life will be held on March 28, 2026, from 3:00–5:00 PM at Preston Castle in Ione, California.

All are welcome to attend and help celebrate Bill’s extraordinary life. Beverages and snacks will be provided. Seating will be limited, so arriving early is encouraged. Parking attendants will be available to assist, and handicap parking accommodations will be provided.

Gone too soon, but never forgotten.

We love you forever.

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