Bill Gene Chambers (79) was ushered into the presence of Jesus on July 31, 2020, in Madera, California. “Well done, good and faithful servant…” Matthew 25:21 He leaves behind his wife of 58 years, Cathleen (Pekarek) Chambers. Bill was born in Dinuba, California, on June 29, 1941, the seventh and youngest child of Elmus and Effie Mae Chambers. Bill’s childhood in Dinuba was wrapped in the love of his mom and dad, sisters and brother.
After graduating Dinuba High School in 1959, Bill attended Reedley College and completed his Associate Degree in Business. In 1962, Bill began his life-long career with Pacific Gas & Electric. He married his bride Cathleen Pekarek on July 14, 1962. This union was blessed with three sons. The family resided in Dinuba and Corcoran in the early years. Then, in 1977, they relocated to Madera. After 31 years of service at PG&E, Bill was offered an early retirement in 1993. It was perfect timing to begin his “Grandpa” career.
Bill professed his faith in Jesus Christ in 1962 and served his Lord faithfully throughout his lifetime. Bill was a member of the Madera Avenue Bible Church for the past 43 years. He was always eager to contribute to his local community…church, school, Little League, and other local events. Bill’s knowledge and passion for sports led to “Referee” and “Umpire” officiating for high school football, baseball, and softball. He also enjoyed his membership in the Kiwanis International Organization for many years.
Bill’s heart was enormous, and his love of family was truly his greatest joy. Oh boy, when the grandkids came along, Bill was radiant, and he treasured being “The Best Grandpa” to Aaron, Dustin, Jonathan, Heather, and Joshua. Bill and his Girl, Cathleen, enjoyed many years of RVing, fishing, and boating with family and friends. Family reunions at Lake San Antonio were dear to his heart, and summers at Hume Lake found a special place in Bill’s heart. Bill loved watching Giants baseball and his all-time favorite announcers Kruk and Kuip. And, he loved all things ‘50s… cars, music, jukeboxes, soda fountains, sock hops, and sideburns…
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Elmus and Effie Mae Chambers. Son: Brian Patrick Chambers. Siblings: Iva Bloyd and husband Bill; Pauline Valdez; Calvina Faulkner Henson and husband William “Curly”; Elmus Chambers, Jr.; and Mary Wilson. Father-in-law Donald Pekarek.
Bill is survived by his wife Cathleen Chambers. Children: Greg Chambers and wife Pam of Auberry; Scott Chambers and wife Connie of Madera. Grandchildren: Aaron Chambers of Madera; Dustin Chambers of Clovis; Jonathan Chambers, Heather Chambers, and Joshua Chambers, all of Madera. Siblings: Peggy Mitchell and husband Joe of Arroyo Grande; sister-in-law Marian Chambers (wife of Elmus, Jr) of Dinuba; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Ken and Johanne Pekarek of Stockton. Mother-in-law Margaret Pekarek of Fresno, and, many beloved nieces and nephews.
The funeral, memorial, and graveside services will be held at a later date.
Memorials or donations may be made to Hume Lake Christian Camp, Dementia Society of America, or your favorite charity.