William Russell McRivette

William (Bill) Russell McRivette died unexpectedly on February 19, 2025, in Roseville, California. The family are deeply saddened by his death. He was born May 22, 1944, in Yuma, Arizona, to Harold and Mildred McRivette.

Bill is survived by his daughter Kathleen (Katy) Vivaldi, son Michael McRivette, son-in-law John Vivaldi, and daughter-in-law Carrie Menold. He also leaves behind three beautiful grandchildren, Colleen Vivaldi, Connor Vivaldi, and Milo McRivette who affectionately called him Poppy.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife of 38 years, Virginia Lee (Fialho) McRivette, his father, Harold McRivette, and mother, Mildred McRivette.

He grew up in Modesto, California, attended Modesto High, and was a baseball pitcher. He went on to play baseball at Cal Poly Pomona and Modesto Junior College, before enlisting in the Air Force. During this time, he met Virginia, they married, and they moved to Anchorage, Alaska, where Bill served his four years at Elmendorf Air Force Base.

In 1969, they moved to Sacramento, California. Bill attended Sacramento State University, then earned his Master’s in Education from Chapman University. After returning to Modesto, he had a long career in teaching and administration. He retired from Modesto City Schools after 30 years.

Bill had many interests and hobbies. He loved history and was a voracious reader. As an avid sports fan, he loved the Oakland A’s and all things baseball. He was able to see many baseball games during his travels in the US, and visiting Fenway Park in Boston last year was a highlight. He enjoyed watching college football, with a long-time affinity to Notre Dame. His ND flag flew every fall and he was so happy to attend a couple of games on the campus with his family.

He loved to travel and was very interested in culture, art, and food. Bill was fortunate to have traveled domestically and internationally several times through the years, making many friends along the way.

Bill moved to the Sun City community in Lincoln, California, in 2017, and immersed himself in activities and social events. He was very happy there and independent until the end. He enjoyed playing golf and bocce ball, attending concerts, participating in the sports car club and the travel club, and socializing with friends. He will be missed by all.

Bill will be laid to rest next to Virginia in Patterson. The family will hold a celebration of life with a date and location TBD.