William "Bill" Robert Bekker

William (Bill) Robert Bekker aged 95, passed away in his sleep on May 18th with his family by his side. Bill was born in Rotterdam, Holland, to Gretchen and Guillermo Bekker. As a very young boy his family relocated to Argentina, South America where his father was a key figure in bringing Coca Cola Bottling Co. to that country. His love of country and service began at the young age of 17 when he joined the United States Merchant Marines, afterwards enlisting in the U.S. Army where he served until his retirement in 1965. His enlistment in the Army took him on tours to Japan, Hawaii and several deployments to France. On one of those assignments in France, he met and married Ginette Irene Valis, in Saintes, France. They began their family in Europe where their children, Michael, Linda, and Vivian, were born and had their last child, Mark, while stationed in Hawaii. His last assignment was at Fort Ord, CA., until his retirement in 1965. Upon his retirement he owned and operated Elsa’s Coffee Shoppe, in Pacific Grove. Then in 1972 he purchased the Green Lantern Motel in Carmel. He enjoyed his time as an innkeeper for many years. One of his greatest enjoyments was the game of tennis. He was an avid tennis player who belonged to Meadowbrook Tennis Club and Carmel Valley Racquet Club, he was well known for his wicked left-handed slice. He loved the game and the many friends that he made. After the loss of his wife Ginette in 1996, Bill found love again with Annie Palma. He and Annie enjoyed 26 plus years together, playing tennis, gardening, and enjoying family. He is survived by Annie, his children Michael Bekker, Linda Harvey (Scott), Vivian Brito, and Mark Bekker (Amy). Extended family Bob Palma (Janelle) and Tisha Nichols (Mark), and a combined total of twelve Grandchildren; Nicholas Brito, Ginette (Brito) Schaffer, Christopher Harvey, April (Harvey) Mooney, Will Bekker, Kathleen Bekker, Phil Bekker, Brian Bekker, Bobby Palma, Jordyn Palma, Annie (Aldrete) Paquin, and Carter Aldrete and also eleven Great Grandchildren; who all lovingly referred to him as “Poppy.” In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to Meals on Wheels of the Monterey Peninsula or your favorite charity. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1:00 P.M. on June 9th at the Chapel in San Carlos Cemetery, Monterey.