William R. Gau, 92, died peacefully on October 23rd, 2012, at Harbor Care, Regency on Whidbey.

William (Bill) was born March 20, 1920, in Chicago, Illinois, to Alice Wilhelms and William C. Gau. Following his high school graduation, Bill started his career with Bankers Life & Casualty. During WWII, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in Europe. After the war, he returned to work for Bankers Life and built a career in the insurance industry, eventually retiring as an Asst. Exec. Vice President of Gen Re Corporation of Stamford, Connecticut.

Bill was an avid reader, gardener, walker, swimmer, and ice skater, and he enjoyed both golfing and travelling extensively in his retirement.

Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife of nearly sixty-five years, Adeline A. Gau. He is survived by his three children, Robert Gau, Margaret Elphick, and Betty Gau; his sons-in-law, Robert Elphick and David Warburton; his three grandchildren, Linnea, Reed, and Pierce Gau Warburton; his niece, Mary Lou Holup, and nephew, Thomas Simms, and their families.

The family wishes to express their deep appreciation to all the caregivers, nurses, and staff members of Harbor Care at Regency and Home Place at Oak Harbor for their unwavering support, kindness, and generosity these last years.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to a charity of choice. Arrangements are with the assistance of Whidbey Memorial.