William J. Somora, a resident of Fleet Landing, passed away on Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at the age of 90. William “Bill” was born on January 10, 1933, in Chicago, Illinois. He was the first of two children born to Pauline Krsak and Anton Somora along with his brother, Anthony (Delores) Somora. After Anton passed away in 1941, Pauline married Anthony Mesich in 1947 in Chicago. From this union came two sons, James Mesich and Robert Mesich.
Bill married Virginia “Ginny” Webster in Jacksonville, Florida in 1957. From this union, two sons – David Anthony Somora and Jeff Somora, and a daughter, Judith Hartmann, were born. In 1982, Bill married Constance Gross Somora in Jacksonville, Florida. They were happily enjoying life when “Connie” passed in 2013.
Bill joined the US Navy in 1951 and served on the USS Ticonderoga carrier. He graduated in 1960 with a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida. He held many engineering positions at SCM—Glidden Organic Chemicals and civil service at Naval Air Station Jacksonville. Bill loved to play and watch tennis. He played on tennis teams at the Arlington Branch YMCA, Rolling Hills Racket Club, Big Oak Racket Club, and Ponte Vedra Club over many years. Bill loved to travel with his wife, Connie. They enjoyed many trips to New York, London, and Paris to watch tennis in person.
From the most modest beginnings, Bill created and lived the American dream for himself and his family. He loved his family and his many friends at Fleet Landing. He will be missed by all who knew him.
Bill is survived by his two brothers, James (Teresa) Mesich, Rock Island, IL, and Robert Mesich, Rock Island, IL.; his children: Jeff Somora, Judith Hartmann and stepson, Scott Hutchins; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; ten nieces and three nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; both of his wives; his brother, Anthony (Delores) Somora; his son, David Anthony Somora; and his stepdaughter, Stacy Hodgson.
A visitation will be held on Monday, November 6, 2023, at Ponte Vedra Valley Funeral Home, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL at 11:00 a.m., followed by the graveside service at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Community Hospice of NE Florida, McGraw Center.
