"Will Power `Bill' would be the first one to say, `Never, never, never give up the fight." -- Robert Schwent
April 11, 2012 (San Diego) -- It is with a heavy heart that we must inform our readers that William "Bill" Gerald Schwent has died of a "circulatory event", his family has informed ECM.
Known to our readers as author of the acerbic and insightful "Will Power Report" column, Will was found by his wife, Jan, around 3 a.m. this morning.
His brother, Robert, offered these details.
"He was apparently suddenly taken...There was no noticeable suffering and accounts described him as appearing serene. He will be missed." Plans will be forthcoming for a ceremony.
A retired history teacher and creative writing instructor, Will was also a talented musician who enjoying composing and recording songs.
His Will Power Report had a popular following on the Internet nationwide, also published in East County Magazine.
In his column, he excoriated Congress and the Supreme Court for actions he felt diminished the rights of ordinary Americans. He put a human face on the healthcare crisis, writing about his battles with health issues and his inability to afford high-priced prescription drugs. He wrote about some of the most significant issues facing America today, as well as the daily challenges faced by us all.
He grew increasingly disenchanted with partisan politics in later years, as his final column, "How Elephants Lost Their Voice," indicated in an uncharacteristially allegorical piece.
Born in 1945 in Daytona Beach Florida, son of the late Col. Gerald W. and Elda Schwent, Will graduated from South High School Torrance and el Camino College in San Jose. He earned his MA in English and San Francisco State University and taught in Long Beach until his retirement.
He is survived by his wife, Jan Monroy Schwent, sister Kathe Robbins (Adam) of San Marcos, nice Erin Robbins Veit of San Diego, and three brothers, Robert, John and Jeff Schwent.
According to his wishes he will be cremated and his ashes scattered along the Merced River near Yosemite, the place he loved best and where he met his wife.
The staff at East County Magazine extends our deepest condolences to Will's family and friends. His passionate voice for truth and justice will be deeply missed.
Comments
I miss Will's writing, too.
I didn't always agree with all of his opinions, but they were heartfelt, honest and well written. RIP, Will.