Pastor

A licensed and ordained minister for 46 years, Petaluma resident Billy Edward Wilhelm died on June 1, 2007 at the age of 80.

Mr. Wilhelm was born on Dec. 8, 1926. He was employed as a heavy equipment operator and member of the Operating Engineers Union Local 3, working on projects that included the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge, Candlestick Park, Lake Don Pedro Dam, Letterman Army Hospital, Larkspur Ferry Terminal, Santa Rosa Mall, Santa Rosa Post Office and the Petaluma Boys Club.

As a minister, Mr. Wilhelm spent 46 years traveling and evangelizing with the Chapel Notes singing group and performed numerous weddings. He was pastor at Kings Chapel Church in Santa Rosa for the past 10 years.

Mr. Wilhelm is survived by his wife of 46 years, Joan Wilhelm. He is survived by his children, James Campbell of Lakeport, Karen Cunningham of Windsor, Karol McCallum of North Port, Fla., Daniel Wilhelm of Lower Lake and Timothy Wilhelm of Sacramento.

He is survived by his sister, Delores McKey of Santa Rosa, and brother, Doyle Bird of Petaluma. He is also survived by several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Billy Wilhelm Memorial Fund, Operating Engineers Federal Credit Union, 6225 State Farm Drive, Rohnert Park 94928 (benefiting missionaries and hospice).