Bill Irwin passed away on March 28, 2019 at age 74. Bill was born in New Jersey to Joanne and William Irwin on August 10, 1944. He graduated from Cal Western University in San Diego where he also played football. Bill lived and worked in San Diego and Los Angeles before moving to the San Francisco Bay Area. It was here that he developed his passion for sailing both privately with his own boat the Gadzooks, and competitively. He crewed in many races with Roy Disney, including the TransPac race from Long Beach to Hawaii, as well as races in Bermuda and Australia. Bill eventually moved to Washington and settled in Port Ludlow. Bill was a successful building contractor who started Paradise Bay Design and Construction. He built two commercial centers in Port Hadlock but was more widely known for his numerous custom homes and beautiful remodels. Bill was generous with his time in the communities where he lived. He built the gazebo at H.J. Carol Park in Port Hadlock aa well as several other community projects. He took part in local events in Port Ludlow and the surrounding area and was once chosen Citizen of the year in Port Hadlock.
Bill had a big heart, a fun-loving zest for life and was always generous with his time spent with friends and family. He had a wonderful sense of humor, an infectious laugh and always had a joke to tell. He was so thoughtful remembering birthdays and anniversaries with funny cards and warm wishes. He loved to entertain and was an excellent cook and grill master. Bill loved to travel, always making friends along the way. Hawaii was by far his favorite place to visit. He and Mary took many vacations there. In addition to traveling Bill enjoyed watching major league sports, especially football and was an avid reader. Bill loved to be challenged and decided to teach himself Spanish. He got a kick out of conversing with people in Spanish whenever he could.
Bill’s final years were troubled with health issues, but despite that he always persevered and remained positive. There was a quiet dignity about him and he will always be remembered with love and laughter. Bill touched so many lives and will be deeply missed by his family and friends. Bill is survived by his beloved wife Mary, sister Stephanie Carter, husband Philip, nephew Christopher and niece Kelly. Cousins Carol Morgan and Sue Hardy.
A Memorial Mass is scheduled for Friday, June 7, at 12:00 PM at St. Mary Star of the Sea, Port Townsend. In lieu of flowers, please donate in memory of Bill to a charity of your choice.
