Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Bye Billy

I was saddened by news of the 14 November passing, at age 53, of William Ray Surch in Santa Margarita. "Billy", or "Bill" if you wanted to be formal, was the prototypical Lompoc athlete of the late 1970's - undersized, hard-working, tough-as-nails, and relentless on the field. As a 5-7, 155 lb Defensive End, he was named to the All-CIF Division II 2nd Team for the 1977 season. He loved sports, especially football and baseball. Off the field he was an affable cut-up who loved life.

His father Jim, was a teacher at LHS for many years, and his older brother, James "Jimmy" Surch (LHS '72), died in the 23 Oct 1983 bombing of the Beirut Marine Barracks. In lieu of flowers, etc. the family has requested that donations be made to a variety of organizations including the Lompoc HS Athletic Association.

My condolences to the large community of family, friends, co-workers, teammates, and others who will always have him in their hearts.   MJL

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