Obituary of Bill Dryden

IN LOVING MEMORY OF BILL DRYDEN Bill Dryden was born on July 10, 1944, in Sacramento, California, and went to heaven on Jan. 16, 2025. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, Bill leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and song, plus a lifetime of unforgettable memories. Bill loved deeply. He is survived by his brother, Mike Dryden; his wife of 59 years, Elizabeth Dryden; his three daughters, Cindy Conway, Debbie Dryden-Bera and Robyn Bera; and his sons-in-law, Jim Dryden-Bera and Dennis Bera. His memory lives on through his five grandchildren, Shoun, Montana, Kody, Skylar and Maya; and his great-granddaughter, Lilith. Bill cherished his family and each of his grandchildren. Bill was preceded in death by his beloved granddaughter Arielle Dryden-Bera, who passed too early in life. They are reunited now, along with the rest of Bill’s family, fishing together in heaven. It was his fun-loving smile, deep belly laugh, generosity and warm hugs that won hearts. Bill worked in agriculture in the almond industry in management and sales. He was loved by his employees who viewed him as a mentor. He freely shared his wisdom and kindness. He traveled to several countries selling almonds and was respected in his field before retiring in 2003 and moving to Lake County. Bill enjoyed the beauty and friendliness in Lake County and he made it his home for the last 22 years of his life. He had the time to travel with his family to beautiful places locally and all over the United States. Elizabeth is grateful to have shared 59 years of marriage with her best friend. Life was exciting and adventurous and every new road, restaurant, or destination, started a new journey and carved a new memory. Bill’s daughters and sons view him as accepting and generous. He was a “second father” to countless friends throughout the years. He was known to welcome most anyone to his dinner table and often said a “good steak will cure ya.” He lives on through his family recipes and a shared love of cooking. His grandchildren are devastated by this loss but they find solace in the many memories of camping and fishing and outdoor trips. They remember the lessons about plants and animals and the campfire stories. They will remember him saying that “nature is my church” and the youngest of grandkids will remember being chased by “Grandpasaurus” while roaring and stomping through the house. During the final years of his life, Bill had chronic illnesses but he was determined to fight and do what he needed to live. Life was still joyful with surprises interwoven into everyday routines. He was smiling until the very end. He was a role model to everyone he met. We will miss this wonderful person. May Bill’s love, wisdom, strength and hugs live forever in our hearts. Please join us in celebration of Bill Dryden’s life on Saturday, March 15, at 1 p.m. at the Chapel of the Lakes at 1625 N. High St. in Lakeport, California.