WILMINGTON — Bill was born in Austin, TX, the second child of Susan Thomas and Jules Carl Bertrand. His father was from Nykobing Falster, Denmark; and his mother was from Pinehurst, NC. Bill spent his early childhood years in Lockhart and Abilene, TX, site of his father’s oil business. The family returned to Pinehurst when Bill was still a youngster and he always considered it his “home.”
Bill attended high school at Tabor Academy in Marion, MA. After graduation, he enlisted in the U. S. Army and served three years in the 29th Infantry Division at Ft. Benning, GA. Bill was a proud Demon Deacon, having graduated with a degree in English from Wake Forest University in 1967.
Before retirement, Bill worked in resort property sales and as a real estate broker. An avid skeet shooter and an excellent shot, Bill was a member of the Buccaneer Gun Club. He was also a member of the Cape Fear Miata Club, where he served as vice president. Bill was a licensed boat captain who piloted charter fishing excursions and a member of the U. S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. He was a communicant of Holy Cross Episcopal Church Wilmington.
Surviving Bill are his wife, Jo-Ann Craig; his daughter, Susan Warner Bertrand and fiancé, Sam DeLong; son, William Vance Bertrand and life partner, Christina Hildreth; brother, John Bertrand and wife, Nancy; and several nieces and nephews. Bill was predeceased by his parents; his wife, Melanie Heaton Bertrand; and his sister, Joan Bertrand Brooks.
Bill was a true southern gentleman, soft-spoken, loyal and honorable. He loved his country, his church, his family and his canine companions.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 8, at Holy Cross Episcopal Church of Myrtle Grove, 5820 Myrtle Grove Road, Wilmington, NC, with the Reverend Jerry Gallagher officiating. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bill’s memory to the National Brittany Rescue & Adoption Network, 94 Deer Path Road, Curwensville, PA 16833, or an animal charity of your choice.
Good night, sweet prince; and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest. — Shakespeare
