William E. Werther ’81

Body

Bill died May 29, 1995, in an automobile accident near his home in Simi Valley, Calif. He and his promised, Jenna Mason, who survived the accident, were returning from San Diego.

At Princeton Bill majored in basic engineering, was a member of Cottage Club, played freshman baseball, was active in intramurals, and was sports editor of the Bric-a-Brac.

Bill was general manager of the Advanced Products Group of Methode Electronics in Chatsworth, Calif. He had previously founded Interconnect Systems and held several U.S. patents.

Former Princeton roommates Eddy Moore, Skip McGee, Chris Linneman, and Steve Mayer attended his memorial service. Chris, a boyhood friend, and Steve delivered heartfelt and emotional eulogies. Bill was remembered fondly for his positive "can do" attitude, his intellect, his enduring friendship, his quick wit, his determination, his athleticism, and his affection for Princeton. Perhaps he was described best by a line from his high school yearbook, "In the beginning, you'll find a kind-eyed sensitive person who, as time goes on, will remain the same way he appeared." He will be sorely missed.

He is survived by his parents, Edith and Cliff, his brother, Richard, and his sister, Lynn.

Donations in Bill's memory to a Princeton scholarship may be made to Princeton University, c/o The Recording Secretary, New South 08544.

The Class of 1981

No responses yet

Join the conversation

Plain text

Full name and Princeton affiliation (if applicable) are required for all published comments. For more information, view our commenting policy. Responses are limited to 500 words for online and 250 words for print consideration.

Paw in print

Image
PAW’s December 2025 cover, with a photo of Michael Park ’98.
The Latest Issue

December 2025

Judge Michael Park ’98; shifts in DEI initiatives; a night at the new art museum.