William "Bill" Norman Tauchen

William "Bill" Norman Tauchen, born on September 30, 1962, to Norman and Marilyn Tauchen at Physician's Hospital in Bakersfield, California, passed away on October 11, 2024, after a 20-month battle with pancreatic cancer. Though the family lived briefly in Caliente, Bakersfield, and Madera, Bill spent most of his childhood in Woody, California.

Bill attended the one-room school in Woody from third through eighth grade before continuing his education at North High School in Bakersfield. He went on to study at Bakersfield College and California State University, Bakersfield, where he competed on the track team, running mid- and long-distance races, and earned a degree in Political Science. Over the years, he worked as a machinist before transitioning to substitute teaching. His teaching assignments included stints at juvenile hall, ABLE, and long-term assignments, including a remote welding class during the COVID-19 pandemic. Bill’s natural teaching ability and genuine love for people earned him admiration, while his no-nonsense approach gained the respect of his students.

Bill had a deep love for his children and cherished every moment spent with them. He found great joy in sharing his knowledge and wisdom, and his role as a protector and caretaker was beautifully reflected in his children's personalities.

An avid outdoorsman, Bill enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping. He had an endless supply of stories about trips with family and friends, giving detailed accounts. When asked about his fondest memories, these adventures always topped his list.

Despite understanding the statistics of his diagnosis, Bill did not accept his fate passively. He dedicated himself to learning about the disease, becoming highly knowledgeable about treatment options, clinical trials, and future advancements. Throughout his battle, his faith remained steadfast. He was known to say, "Either I am granted a miracle or I go to be with my Lord and Savior. Either way, I win.” Or “By the grace of God, I will be healed or by the grace of God I will be brought home."

Bill is survived by his parents, Norman and Marilyn Tauchen; his children, Adam, Sarah, Hannah (Sean) Rooney, and Leah; his sister, Susan (Warren) Rooney; and his long term partner Sharon Terrell and her daughter Angelica. Along with other family members and friends whom he loved dearly. If you knew Bill, you know that he never met a stranger.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Dr. Vinh-Linh Nguyen and his team at Rio Bravo Cancer Center for their compassionate care, which gave them more time with Bill than initially expected. Along with his primary doctor Dr. Amolika Mangat and her office for their continued support and care.

A memorial service will be held on November 22, 2024, at 2 p.m. at Valley Baptist Church, located at 4800 Fruitvale Avenue in Bakersfield. In honor of Bill's memory and personality, attendees are encouraged to dress casually - for example, jeans, Hawaiian shirts or flannels are welcomed - as Bill often said, "Life is too short to be so serious."

In lieu of flowers, please consider sending donations to The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (pancan.org or PO Box 5046; Boone IA, 50950).