William C. Hardesty

William C. Hardesty, “Bill,” 75, beloved husband, father, grandfather, restaurateur, and real estate broker passed-on Jan. 15th after a courageous battle with emphysema. Bill was born in Denver, Colorado, on Feb. 13, 1936, to John Duncan Hardesty and Thelma Grace Hardesty. He attended Newport Harbor High and went on to receive a degree in real estate from USC. An honored member of the Newport Beach Association of Realtors since 1957, he also owned and operated the Park Avenue Café on Balboa Island for over 26 years. As a sober member of Alcoholics Anonymous since 1962, Bill helped fellow alcoholics redirect their lives through sobriety. An iconic character on Balboa Island, Bill was an enthusiastic boater and fisherman and was regularly seen cruzin the board walk in his cart with his much adored ‘Puppy Luv.’ Bill had a sharp wit and independent spirit; he will be celebrated and missed by all those who shared his life and a seat at the Park Ave. Café. He is survived by his wife Denise, brother Robert, and his five children and two step-children: Julie, Kelly, Michael, Heidi, Scott, Chris and Kim. Bill embraced the mantra that “I am here to behold the tragedies and comedies of this changeable life with an attitude of unchangeable happiness.” A memorial services will be held on Sat. Jan. 21st from 2-4pm at the Balboa Island Carroll Beek Center, 115 Agate Ave. All those who knew and loved him are encouraged to attend.