(1923 – 2016)
William ‘Bill’ James Moshofsky, 92 – (March 30, 1923 ~ March 16, 2016) A true gentleman, Bill’s sincerity made people remember him as one of the kindest men they’d ever known. An honest, highly intelligent man with impeccable integrity, Bill made one feel like the most important person in the room. Although he was passionate about his political views, Bill was also open-minded about other viewpoints.
William Moshofsky, known affectionately as Bill, passed away March 16, 2016, at home surrounded by his family. Born in Beaverton to Edward and Sophia Moshofsky, third of seven children, Bill credited being raised on a farm during the Depression with preparing him for life. Bill attended McKinley grade school and graduated from Beaverton High School, University of Oregon and University of Oregon Law School, all with honors. Serving as an infantry officer in World War II, his heroic efforts under fire in Germany led to a Bronze Star Medal for his unrelenting vigor and enthusiasm, as cited in his Bronze Star award. He was recalled to service during the Korean conflict as a Judge Advocate General officer.
Bill enjoyed a long and successful career, beginning with his work as an attorney. He applied his law expertise during his 23 years at Georgia-Pacific, many of those as vice president for government affairs, environment and transportation. Upon retirement from Georgia-Pacific, Bills love for his country and his desire to make a difference pushed him to run for U.S. Congress in 1982 and 1984. Following that, he was a partner in Moshofsky, DiLorenzo and Dietz law firm. Never one to slow down, Bill tirelessly devoted his time and talents to Oregonians in Action beginning in 1989. During his years at OIA, he served in a variety of capacities, helping thousands of Oregonians address private property rights concerns.
Over his lifetime, Bill was also active in many professional, civic and business organizations. A longtime toastmaster at the Arlington Club, where he was a member, Bill also belonged to the Multnomah Athletic Club. It was important to Bill to share his passion for leaving the world a better place. To that end, he wrote and published two books, “Regulatory Overkill,” focused on land use issues and “My Life.”
Bill is survived by his loving wife, Dorothy; children, Brett (Sue), Sally (John Purcell), Mike (Betsy) and Mary Newman (Allen); many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and brothers, Art and Gerry. He was predeceased by his wife, Peggy, who passed away in 2003 (mother of Brett, Sally and Mike); wife, Nell, who died in 1956 (mother of Mary); brothers, Ed and Dick; and sisters, Vange and Betty.