Meet Bill

I would like to share a bit about my life with you. I was born in Vancouver, BC, and when I was three years old, my family moved to Tacoma. After graduating from high school in 1966, I pursued further education at Bates Vocational Institute and eventually earned an AA degree in Transportation Logistics from Green River Community College. 

In 1969, I felt a strong calling to serve this country, so I joined the United States Coast Guard. For four years, I dedicated myself to this honorable role and during my service time I became a naturalized citizen. Following my Honorable Discharge in 1973, I embarked on a career in the Port industry using my skills learned in the Coast Guard. 

My career journey began at the Port of Tacoma in 1973, where I held my first position. Over the next 16 years, I diligently worked my way up the Port ranks, eventually achieving the management position of Operations Superintendent.  

In 1989, I was presented with an opportunity that led me to the Port of Olympia, where I accepted the role of Director of Operations. This management position involved overseeing the activites of the Marine Terminal, Swantown Marina, and the Tumwater Airport. 

Also in 1989,  my family and I relocated from Pierce County to Thurston County, and we have called Lacey our home ever since. From 1989 until 1997 I was active in local community activities as well as several organizations with the Washington State Port Industry. 

In 1995, I completed a 3 years certification process and became recognized in the Port industry as a Certified Public Port Manager through the American Association of Port Authorities. This prestigious certification, achieved by only approximately 60 individuals worldwide since its inception in 1993, reflects my dedication and expertise in the field. 

In 1997, I transitioned to the Port of Grays Harbor, assuming the responsibilities of Director of Operations once again -there Marine Terminals in Aberdeen and Hoquiam, Bowerman General Aviation Airport and Wesport Marina. After accumulating a remarkable 27 years of experience in the Port industry, I decided to retire in 2000. 

However, retirement didn't mean I stopped being active. I embraced a new chapter of my life at Saint Martin's University, serving as the Director of Conference Services and Director of Facilities Management for six years. I dedicated my time to these roles until my retirement in October 2006. 

In November 2006, I was appointed to the Port of Olympia Commission to fill a vacancy in Port District #2. Following my appointment, I was elected to four terms, proudly representing the citizens of the then Port District #2. I did seek re-election in 2021 because I moved to a new home in 2022.  Due to that  move into  Port District #1, I have decided to seek the Port Commissioner seat once again, eager to serve and represent the citizens of District #1 as well as the entire Thurston County population. 

My wonderful wife, Barbara, and I have been married for 44 years. We are blessed with five children and fourteen grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.   While raising our own children, we have spent 40 plus years as Foster Parents.  Most of that 40 year period involved working with Medically Fragile and Physically Challenged children.  The joy of helping others less fortunate as ourselves was also shared with several of our adult children who also became Foster Parents.   

Apart from my family life, I've also been actively involved in coaching various competitive kids baseball teams in the Lacey area for the past 30 years. It's a fulfilling endeavor that allows me to contribute to the growth and development of young athletes.  As a former veteran, I belong to the American Legion in Olympia, we have recently joined the Fraternal Order of Eagles, and I have been active in Rotary International for the last 16 years.  I am a board member of the South Sound Maritime Heritage Association (Harbor Days) 

That's a glimpse into my life so far, and I'm grateful for the opportunities, experiences, and relationships that have shaped me. I look forward to new endeavors, continued personal growth, and making a positive impact on the community I hold dear.