William Foley

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the loss of William (Bill) Patrick Foley, a man of immense passion and an entrepreneurial spirit, passed away on September 5, 2023, in Aliso Viejo, California. Born on January 14, 1938, in the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois, Bill lived a life filled with achievements, love, and devotion to his family and friends.  Bill attended school in the city of Chicago.  Being a natural student who loved learning, he achieved valedictorian and a scholarship which was acknowledged in the local newspaper.  From a young age, Bill displayed an extraordinary drive and determination. His journey as an entrepreneur began during middle school when he started assisting shoppers with their groceries. He later ventured into starting a newspaper stand on the chilly streets of Chicago. Bill continued his education attending night classes at local colleges to pursue his quest for knowledge on every topic that piqued his interest.  He would then apply his newly acquired knowledge into his career. Through this combined experience, Bill honed his communication skills and learned the art of selling his products and services.

This relentless pursuit orchestrated the beginning of a remarkable career that spanned over 35 years in the Lighting and Manufacturing Industry. As a traveling salesman, Bill crisscrossed the country to meet new clients while nurturing existing relationships. His impact on the industry and at ALP Lighting was unparalleled. Rising through the ranks to achieve the esteemed position of Executive Vice President, Bill oversaw manufacturing operations overseas and various divisions at corporate headquarters. Throughout his career, he mentored numerous individuals who were fortunate to benefit from his wisdom and guidance.  Bill possessed an uncanny ability to strike the perfect balance between lifting people up and gently pushing them to reach their highest potential. He had an innate talent for inspiring others to become the best versions of themselves. His colleagues admired him for his leadership qualities and respected his unwavering commitment to excellence.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bill's true legacy lies in how he loved his family unconditionally.  While fixing his car on the driveway of his parents’ house, Bill met Diana Kroger the love of his life in Chicago, IL. in 1955.  They courted for five years in the company of a chaperone until tying the knot April 30th, 1960. In their pursuit of parenthood, Bill and Diana experienced heartache when they lost their first unborn son William due to miscarriage.  Refusing to give up on their dreams of building a family, they opened their hearts and chose to expand through adoption. In 1965, the Foley family was blessed with the adoption of Cindy, followed by Michelle in 1970 and in 1972, they welcome the birth of Michael.  Bill cherished every moment spent with his children and embraced the role of fatherhood with unwavering commitment.  

Bill indulged in his passion for food long before being a "foodie" became popularized. He took immense pleasure in savoring his favorite treats such as chocolate donuts, hamburgers with French fries (always eaten first), spaghetti with meatballs, and a satisfying scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. Additionally, he enjoyed taking Dee and the kids on spontaneous weekend car rides, relishing the scenery while exploring new destinations.

Bill's strong core values of unity and devotion to family radiated through everything he did. His infectious smile and contagious sense of humor made everyone feel at ease in his presence. Known for his compassionate nature, reliability, and genuine commitment to relationships, Bill was a pillar of support in times of trouble. He offered love, support, and guidance without expecting anything in return.  One of Bill's remarkable qualities was his ability to see the goodness within people, even when they could not see it themselves. He had a rare gift for making everyone feel special and important whenever they interacted with him. His absence will be deeply felt by all who were touched by his kindness and warmth.

He was a loving husband to Diana Jean Foley and a loving father to Cindy Foley, Michelle Nevil, Michael Foley, father-in-law to Joe Nevil, Nicole Foley, Mike Burstein, grandfather to Justin Salinas, Jordan Nevil, Elias Burstein, Jackson Belo, brother to Patrick Foley, David Foley, brother-in-law to Maddie Foley and Angie Foley.  His soul is reunited with his beloved son William Foley, mother Edith Foley, father Patrick Foley, sister Dorothy Major, brother Michael Foley, niece Sheri Foley.  

On September 20th, 2023, friends and loved ones will gather at Forest Lawn - Covina Hills - Memory Chapel in Covina, California to bid farewell to this extraordinary man during a Funeral Service starting at 12:00 PM. The chapel is located at 21300 Via Verde Drive.

In this time of profound loss, let us remember Bill Foley as a man who lived life with gusto, touching hearts and inspiring others along the way. May his gentle soul find eternal comfort as we hold onto our cherished memories of him forever.  In his honor and in lieu of sending flowers, please make a tribute donation to Alzheimer's Association to help fund a cure.   Alzheimer's Association | Donate to Fight Alzheimer's Disease