Howard William Compton

H.W. “Bill” Compton 

Born:  August 24, 1936 in Glendale, CA, to Otto and Bettye Compton             

Departed this life:  January 8, 2021 Hemet, CA

Bill spent his adolescence in the Antelope Valley.  He worked on the family farm, was a member

of the high school Band, and also played basketball in high school and college.  He was Captain of the

Antelope College Basketball Team when they went to State Playoffs.

Bill married his high school sweetheart Linda and they were married 50 years.  Together they

had 3 children, Donald, Donna (Manning), and  Robert.  Linda and Donald preceded Bill in death.

He worked for Southern California Edison for 40 years, starting as a meter reader, and moved up through management.  He was well thought of by all who knew him as a mentor, friend, and leader.

Together Bill and Linda were pioneers of the BMX Industry in the 70’s.  They successfully ran the Orange “Y” BMX and also the Irvine track.  They were honored as #1 TRACK by the American Bicycle Association.  Racing was always in their blood and after Bill retired they became avid NASCAR fans, traveling to races and watching them on T.V.

After being widowed, Bill met Ruth Marcus, (who was also recently widowed) at Four Seasons line dancing lessons.  After dating for nearly a year they were married in July of 2009. In addition to line dancing they also enjoyed playing Bocce, and traveled a great deal.  Bill served on the Architectural Committee for 6 years, and also on an ad hoc Rules and Regulations Review Committee.  He & Ruth were active members at Spirit of Joy Community Church, where Bill served as an Usher, attended the Men’s Group, helped cook and serve meals for Valley Restart., served on the Church Council, and was always ready to help out in any way.

Bill is survived by his wife of 11 years, Ruth, daughter Donna (Kent) Manning, son Robert (Nikki) Compton, and grandchildren:  James (Gretchen) Manning, Keith Manning, Kennon and Jack Compton. Great grandchildren: Jameson, Camden, Conrad and Malcolm Manning.  Additionally Ruth’s family who became a second family to Bill: David (Donna) Kurtz, Martin (Stephanie) Kurtz, Craig (Anne) Marcus & 7 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

Services will be held outdoors.  Facemasks and social distancing are required per COVID restrictions.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill’s honor may be directed to Spirit of Joy Church

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