William John ‘Bill ‘ Tellous

February 14, 1934 - February 3, 2021

MT. HELIX — William John (Bill) Tellous

Big hearted Bill was the happiest when he was spending time with his family and watching his children and grandchildren at all of their events. Especially the mini road trips he took with his son, Billy, to watch the grandkids’ games, no matter how near or far. Bill had quite a life and was a true legend in San Diego. He enjoyed discussing all things old and new historically about his city. Born in Pacific Beach Bill loved spending every spare moment at the beach where he became a lifeguard while attending La Jolla High School.

After graduation Bill joined the Army 82nd Airborne and became a paratrooper. He loved to share the fact that although he was “afraid of heights” he still jumped a total of eighteen times. Bill also played baseball for his Army team.

After his Honorable Discharge, Bill returned to San Diego and attended San Diego Junior College where he was the quarterback on the Metro League Championship Team. Bill was named to the All-conference Metro Basketball League and named to the Metro League First Team and Second Team All-state.

Bill was a member of the Alpha Delt Fraternity and graduated with an Associate’s Degree in History and Education. After local and state recognition, he received numerous scholarship offers for both football and basketball, but he was always thankful that he chose San Diego State University as his Alma Mater. Bill joined the Sigma Chi Fraternity and graduated with Bachelors and then a Master’s Degree in Education.

Naturally Bill met his wife Jeanne at Old Mission Beach. They enjoyed body surfing with the beach group watching many sunsets. Bill helped pioneer Over-the-line, where he was a two time champion.

After Bill and Jeanne wed they were blessed with two children. A son William Paul (Billy) Tellous, and a daughter Toni Helen Tellous. Bill began his distinguished

career with the San Diego Unified School District which spanned thirty five years. The majority of those years were spent as an Elementary School Principal. He strongly believed in open discussions between administrators, teachers, students and parents. Bill believed that all students deserved a well-rounded, quality education that would prepare them for future success.

Bill was a member of the San Diego Rowing Club, and enjoyed their handball tournaments which he won two times. Bill was a member of the fun and charitable 20/30 club. Bill served as the Executive Secretary for the San Diego Football Officials Association for thirty years, and the Executive Secretary for the San Diego Basketball Officials Association for twenty years. Bill officiated all levels of both football and basketball, from CIF to NCAA. After hanging up his cleats Bill served on the Executive Board. Some of Bills happiest times were hanging with the guys after the games or meetings.

Bill was a clock timer for the San Diego Chargers and for the Holiday Bowl for many years. A highlight was being on the field for the Super Bowl in 2003 at then Jack Murphy Stadium. Bill made his family and friends so very proud when he was inducted into the San Diego Officials Hall of Champions for both Football and Basketball.

Bill enjoyed many hours at his pool doing his daily crossword puzzle, and took such pride in his landscaping. Bill and Jeanne looked forward to walks on the beach and especially at Crystal Pier.

Bill is lovingly survived by his wife Jeanne, son Bill Tellous, daughter Toni Tellous, and daughter Shawna Tellous. He is also survived by his seven grandchildren Monique, John, Michael, Billy, and then another Billy, Chloe, and Mathew. His granddaughter Monique summed up all things Bill Tellous by saying, “Much more than a father and grandfather could strive to become, Grandpa was the best friend we’ve ever had, the ultimate cheerleader, and the smartest man who had the biggest heart. He was our everything, and will forever be the greatest man we will ever know. We will miss him each and every day.” We are all so very thankful that Bill passed away peacefully in his sleep, at his home on February 3rd, 2021.

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