Eulogy  by Nikki Arvallo, eldest daughter:

My dad was a man of great passion and love.  Even though, through circumstances beyond my control, I didn’t grow up with my dad.  I always knew he was out there and that he loved me.  As any child would, I longed for him to come find me so I could prove he loved me.  I would look through the pictures I had of him and try to remember him.  His passionate eyes and loving smile penetrated through the pictures.  I remember riding in his VW beetle and him driving with his knees.  My older sister, Kim, who he always included when he would come pick me up, remembers him trying to teach her how to drive in that same bug.  She must have been around 9.  I remember being at his house and him trying to convince me to eat spinach so I can be strong like Popeye.  I remember reconnecting when I graduated high school and he sent me a map of Southern California.  He wrote, “Nikki’s Territory” across the top, marked where all my family lives and sent me pictures of everyone including my beautiful sister, Ronica, who was maybe 8 at the time.   I loved her instantly and was so excited to get to know her.  From that moment on my relationship with my dad grew.  This time he continued to show up for me. He flew me out to Palm Springs so I could visit with my family and meet Ronica. He drove me past the house he brought me home for the hospital to.  He drove out to Arkansas with Eileen and Roni to caravan with me to Arizona when I wen to grad school, creating fun memories along the way as we camped.  He came to my graduation from grad school.  He showed up to help me paint the first house I ever bought.  He was there to walk me down the aisle on my wedding day and was there in the hospital when Samuel was born and had to stay in the NICU.   He always told me he was so proud of me and would always say, “Love you more.”  He loved his grandchildren and always let them know how proud he was of them.  His passion and love often seemed to much for him.  He would quickly tear up when talking on the phone or when I would visit so he would keep it short.  I am so grateful that my son Samuel has so much of my dad in him: from his good looks, kindness, passion for others, love of maps, and working with his hands.  I will love you always and forever Dad, no matter what.

John 14:1-6

“Don’t let your hearts be troubled.  Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home.  If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a placer for you?  When everything is ready I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. And you know the easy to where I am going.”  No we don’t know, Lord.” Thomas said.  “We have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?”  

Jesus told him, “ I am the way, the truth, and the life.  No one can come to the Father except through me.”

I am comforted to know my dad knew that Jesus is the way.  And look forward to seeing him in heaven.  Where he is now with his Lord, Jesus, his wife Eileen, his parents, my Aunt Terry, and my Aunt Annette.  Love you Daddy.

Such a beautiful memorial to your father.  Thanks so much to both of you for sharing how much Bill meant to you and your families.  I know that you and your families brought him such great joy!!  Thanks for sharing your thoughts and your wonderful pictures.

We were so sad to hear of Bill’s passing. Prayers for his entire family that the memories of his love and laughter bring them peace. Praying for God’s strength and comfort to all who loved Bill. 

Mike and Terri Black