Bill Houghton

November 18, 1936 to November 29, 2017

William Thomas (Bill) Houghton, of Danville, passed away on November 29th, 2017, after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. He is survived by Louise, his devoted wife of 55 years, and his loving sons, Ted and Geoff, as well as his grandchildren, Rowan, Thatcher and Henry, his brother, John and wife May Ella, and sisters Carol Ann Hall and Janet George, and her husband Bruce George. Bill will be remembered by all who knew him for his wisdom, kindness and integrity.

Born and raised in New Brunswick, Canada, Bill attended college at St. Francis Xavier and McGill universities, and completed his Masters degree at the University of Delaware. He enrolled at McMaster University to earn his doctorate in chemical engineering and to learn more about the emerging field of computer science, which would be the focus of his career.

Bill moved his young family to San Rafael in 1966, and remained a proud resident of the Bay Area for the rest of his life. He worked for the Chevron Corporation for more than thirty years, retiring in 1997 as the President of the Chevron Information Technology Company, where he oversaw many innovations in the use of computers and satellite communications. He was lauded for his honesty, trustworthiness and concern for the people he managed, and was a champion for gender equality and diversity in the workplace.

Bill was a passionate sports fan, who loved the 49ers, the Montreal Canadiens and the Brooklyn (but never LA) Dodgers. More than that, he was an accomplished athlete, a good hockey player and a great golfer. He enjoyed skiing and playing volleyball, and hated to swim. He was also a talented pianist who loved the classics and jazz, admiring Ludwig Van Beethoven and Earl “Fatha” Hines in equal measure.

Bill led by example and was committed to fair play. His selflessness and compassion extended to all he touched, even to a succession of difficult family terriers he cheerfully tolerated (most of the time). His humble demeanor and dry sense of humor brightened our day. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

In keeping with Bill’s wishes, no memorial service will be held. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research,

Grand Central Station, P.O. Box 4777, New York, NY 10163-4777.