William D. Childers Sr.'s Obituary
William Dee Childers, 90, passed away peacefully in Escondido, California on December 21,
2022. Born and raised in San Diego, he joined the Air Force and served for 20 years, achieving
the rank of Technical Sergeant. He returned to the area after retiring from the Air Force in 1971,
and worked at IVAC, an Eli Lilly subsidiary for many years.
Bill, as he was known by those close to him, is survived by his wife of 65 years, Marjorie
Childers, his children Lisa Childers and Curtis Childers, and his grandsons, Nathaniel Hirai,
Jonathan Childers, and Michael Childers. He is also mourned by his surviving siblings Gloria
Bradford and Elaine Coats.
Bill was an avid outdoor enthusiast who enjoyed exploring our National Parks and other wild
places. In his youth he enjoyed motorcycles, deep sea fishing, scuba diving and spear-fishing.
Later in life he enjoyed boating, backpacking, body surfing, badminton and tennis. Bill is
remembered by his children and grandsons as an avid camper, passing his love of spending
time in nature on to future generations.
Throughout his life he also loved playing card and board games. Bill was a strategic and
passionate competitor, qualities which he passed down to his grandsons around the card table.
Bridge, pinochle, hearts and chess were his favorites.
And most importantly, he was a lifelong Christian with a strong faith; always emboldened by and
full of God’s grace. He most recently attended Christ the Cornerstone Lutheran Church in Mira
Mesa, and had a special heart for the Lutheran Border Concerns Ministry in Tijuana.
Burial will be at Miramar National Cemetery.
What’s your fondest memory of William?
What’s a lesson you learned from William?
Share a story where William's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with William you’ll never forget.
How did William make you smile?