Obituary

William Dennis Livesey passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side after a long illness.

Bill, or “Billy” as he was affectionately known, was born in Brooklyn, New York in 1944. He loved reminiscing about the good old days, playing ball in the neighborhood, the Brooklyn Dodgers, his Italian heritage, and cherished times spent with his parents and grandparents. He grew up with and remained close to his loving sisters Mary Weisenreider and Virginia “Ginny” Niebling, as well as his cousins Arthur, Carolyn, and Jimmy.

In 1961, Bill graduated from Brooklyn Technical High School, which he considered a highlight of his education. He stayed active in the Alumni Association and attended many class reunions. He graduated from City College with a degree in History in 1966 and soon after served in the Army. While stationed at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, he met his wife Deanna at a USO dance. It was love at first sight. They were married in 1969 and recently celebrated their 53^rd wedding anniversary. Together they raised two daughters Debbie Givens and Christina Livesey. He encouraged his children to pursue their education and interests in language, literature, and art. Bill was a proud and devoted Papa to his two grandsons whom he adored. He will also be remembered by his nephews Dennis, Stephen, and David, his niece Samantha, his brother-in-law Richard, and his sister-in-law Linda.

Bill worked at Metropolitan Life Insurance Company for 35 years, retiring as a Senior Vice President of Institutional Business. A man of great intellect, he was very dedicated to his work and his colleagues at offices in New York City, New Jersey, Long Island, and Illinois. He had a remarkable career and was proof that with hard work you can achieve anything in life.

Everyone who knew Bill knew that he loved to eat. He spent his free time dining at fine restaurants or cooking at home and watching Julia Child. He was an avid runner and completed marathons in New York City, Chicago, and Washington, DC.  Bill loved traveling the world with his family and friends to various countries in Europe and Asia. He also took up drawing and extensively read and studied James Joyce, his favorite author.

Bill had a generous nature and compassion for others. In his youth he volunteered for the Head Start program, was a lifelong blood donor, and after retiring was a hospital volunteer and a mentor to entrepreneurs at SCORE San Diego. In keeping with Bill’s giving spirit, his tissues were donated through OneLegacy to benefit others in need.

The past several years were a trying time for Bill but he persevered with grace and dignity. Bill had many angels on earth throughout his illness. His family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and caregivers who helped him along the way including Dr. Rao, Sonny, Catalina, Robert, Cee Cee, Jannah, Jayson, and Michelle.

In recent months, Bill enjoyed the companionship of Babalu, his ruby red Cavapoo puppy. For Bill, Babalu was his “boo”, his guard dog, and without a doubt “the greatest dog of all time.” Babalu was a great source of joy to Bill and is now a tremendous comfort for his wife Deanna and daughter Christina.

Bill was truly one of a kind. He was loved by many and will be missed beyond  measure. A private memorial service will be held in the coming weeks. If you wish to honor Bill’s memory, the family asks that any donations be made to his favorite charities, the ASPCA and Save the Children.