William Juptner

William "Bill" Juptner, a long time Laguna Beach resident, passed away unexpectedly on March 10. He was 80.

Bill Juptner was born in Germany in 1927 and received a master's degree in electro-mechanical and optical engineering from the Technical University of Munich. After marrying his wife, Erna, they moved to Chicago in 1954. After traveling to the West Coast on business, he fell in love with Laguna Beach, which had been his home for the past 45 years.

He was an accomplished business entrepreneur, who established three successful technology companies. His various businesses in the U.S. and Europe resulted in professional achievements and recognition within his field. He was granted numerous patents and was widely viewed as a pioneer of angular rate sensor technology.

Juptner enjoyed various interests and hobbies. He was a member of the Laguna Beach Rotary, Festival of Arts and Laguna Art Museum. He was an avid tennis player, loved animals and enjoyed traveling the world. Most of all he loved spending time with his family. His family and friends will miss his wit and gentle nature.

He leaves behind his wife Erna; daughters Suzanne and Annette; sonin laws Mark Frappier and Edward Gonzalez; and granddaughters Alexandra, Madeleine and Ava.

A memorial gathering to remember and celebrate his life will take place March 27 at 11:30 a.m. at The Fountains retirement community, 25411 Sea Bluffs Drive, Dana Point.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to the Laguna Beach Animal Shelter, which can be reached at 497.3553.