Bill died peacefully at home after a brief battle with cancer. He was a strong guiding mentor and friend to everyone that knew him.

He was born in Palmdale, CA. Moved to the Bay Area in his early twenties. He studied at Diablo Valley College obtaining an Associate of Art degree in Administration of Justice. He began his long law enforcement career with East Bay Regional Parks, then transitioned to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Department where he served for 32 years, retiring in 1999. During his tenure with the Sheriff’s Office, he held positions in Patrol, K-9, Detention/Transportation. He was President of the Deputy Sheriff’s Association for over 10 years. While serving on the Board of Directors he was instrumental in negotiating some of the strongest contracts in the Sheriff’s Department history. He was awarded the Jerry Zellers Award – the highest honor the Association bestows to one of its members for their outstanding effort and dedicated service. Additionally, while serving as DSA President, Bill was highly involved with the Peace Officers Research Association of California – developing professional guidelines and legislation to protect law enforcement members pensions and retirement.

Bill proudly served his community – he was a member of the Pleasant Hill City Council, eventually serving as Mayor. He was active in Pleasant Hill Baseball Association for a number of years as an umpire. He was involved in the Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce and many other community organizations.

Bill was deeply engaged in the Diablo Valley Corvette Club in Concord. Serving as President for many years, organizing many memorable runs, trips and activities over that time.

Bill is survived by his loving Mother the Matriarch of the family, Lola; wife Helen; Daughter Tammy Ann, whom he adored, and her husband Michael Kyllo; their children, that Bill was so very proud of:  Brian Joseph, Jaclyn Annalis (Kyllo) Maala and her husband Jonathan Maala, Kevin William, Katelyn Rose, and Jessica Lynn.  Cousins Kathy Elmore (Tennessee) and Sandy Harris (Brawley, CA).  Sisters in Law, Arlene Bell and Linda (Shelly) Chaparro and their families. Bill is predeceased by his father William H. Landis, former wife (Tammy’s mother), Karen Griffith and infant son, Todd Harper Landis.

There will be a Celebration of Life at the Deputy Sheriff’s Association Hall Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 1:00pm.  Address – 1780 Muir Road, Martinez, CA 94553.  We invite friends and family to gather and remember all the good times and share your cherished stories.

In lieu of flowers, the family has decided to provide a memorial bench dedicated to all Pleasant Hill Mayors – Past, Present and Future in Bill’s honor. We have established a GoFundMe account in order to accept donations  https://gofund.me/4cee536cc

You are also welcome to donate to your favorite charity in Bill’s honor.

The family would like to express our sincere thanks to Hospice of the East Bay and Oak Park Hills Chapel  for their caring support during Bill’s final journey.

Bill has chosen to be scattered with his father.