William ‘Bill’ Witt, retired correctional officer

William “Bill” Witt, a retired correctional officer from Pelican Bay State Prison, passed away March 1, 2025. Witt, a California native, was 81 years old.

Services will be held at 3 p.m., April 13, at the Elks Lodge in Brookings, Oregon.

Will was also a military veteran, joining the United States Air Force when he was 18 years old. He deployed to Vietnam for four years and when he was stationed in Spain, he met his wife, Matilde. Together, they had five children. He retired from the military as a master sergeant after a 20-year career.

Witt then began his second career, joining the department as a cadet in February 1987. After graduating the Basic Correctional Officer Academy, he reported to Avenal State Prison in April.

He then transferred to Pelican Bay State Prison in Cresent City in November 1989. Witt retired from Pelican Bay in April 2007.

He continued working as a retired annuitant from May 2007 until June 2008. In all, he worked for the department for 21 years.

After finally retiring, he spent his time fishing, making furniture and spending time with family and friends.

Witt was preceded in death by his wife, Matilde, and two sons: George and William. He is survived by three children: Maria, Huston and Donald, as well as grandchildren and great grandchildren.

“Many knew Bill both personally and professionally. Bill, respected by his peers, was a well-loved member of the Pelican Bay State Prison family. He was a good friend, partner, and a good human being. He will be missed by all,” prison officials wrote. “We extend our most sincere condolences to Correctional Officer Witt’s family, friends and loved ones.”

Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.

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