William (Bill) Land Merkes, 74, of Healdsburg, California passed away at Sutter Hospital in Santa Rosa, California, March 22, 2022.  He began his life in Whittier, California, July 23, 1947, spending his childhood in Southern California and adulthood in Scottsdale, Arizona. He attended Camelback High School, Arizona State University and Cal Tech. He lived an active lifestyle and was a leader in the Scottsdale Jaycees. Bill enjoyed a long career in the electronics industry. His design acumen obtained a few patents and his management expertise sent him to far-flung cities worldwide, from Singapore to London, Paris, North and South America and Puerto Rico. He resided at Seattle and Whidbey Island, Washington, San Diego, California and Wilmington, North Carolina. In 2006 Bill met Jan Mettler and subsequently relocated to Healdsburg, California. Together they farmed grapes, olives, vegetable and flower gardens. They shared sixteen memorable years, hosting family gatherings, attending music events and baseball games, rooting for the San Francisco Giants. An astute, often irreverent man who listened more than he talked, Bill was known for his dry humor, quick wit and keen observation. He was an accomplished artist, a mariner, music lover and “recovered” golfer. Bill was a considerate man with a soft heart for animals, rescuing baby birds, jack rabbits, infant squirrels, even the mice who found their way into his vintage Porsche. In addition to his partner Jan and her family, Bill is survived by his sister Marci Sutton of Vail, Arizona and brother David Merkes of Scottsdale.