William Payer Obituary

I worked with Bill for a brief period of time but for years after we worked together Bill remained a mentor and a sounding board. As l have said for years I've worked with managers who taught me how to do -- and mangers who taught me how not to do it. Bill was one who taught me how to lead. I will missh is sound advice. Godpseed my friend.

I am deeply saddened to learn that Bill is no longer with us. For many of us, there are are a few people that significantly affect the trajectory of your life. For me, Bill was one of those people. He offered me a job as a reporter at KPIX when I had nearly given up hope of ever getting a decent job in the industry again, after a very long period of unemployment after my contract wasn´t renewed at my previous station. Over the years, I greatly appreciated his humor, insight and judgment. I have many fond memories and feel very fortunate to have known him. He was a 10 foot newsman in a land of inchlings. I hope his family finds some small measure of comfort at this difficult time knowing what a great impact he had on so many people. I will miss him.

Roni and family. I don´t know of a more beautiful person than Bill. He loved you Roni and his family more than life itself. He was a wonderful friend to me. I miss him desperately. I can´t even imagine your pain losing the heart and soul of your family.

To Roni and family,
I first met Bill in 2016 when he was a panelist for the IGF(Intergenerational Forum). He was a man I admired and respected. I will most certainly miss his wit, intelligence and how he was able to get me/people to open their minds to a different perspective.
My most heartfelt condolences to you and the family
Fred Danziger

Ronnie, sending my deepest sympathy and love to you and your family.

This is devastating news. Bill was a great manager and a better friend. I remember when he called me to offer me a job at KPIX in San Francisco.... He told me what it paid... and said.... but there is room for negotiation.... I was a dumb kid and so excited that I was like... no... that low-ball salary is FINE! He said "are you sure... you can ask for more".... I was like... nope... see ya monday! He always tried to brighten spirits and make your day better. When I met my current wife she was an intern at the station.... he knew I really liked her but wouldn't ask her out since it was not ok to date an intern. The day he hired her on as staff... he pulled me aside and said.... It's your lucky day... we hired her... go ask her out on a date. We have been married for 22 years.

When we started a PR agency we tried to hire him as a VP... he was interested but ultimately was ready to retire and spend time with Roni.... Thank goodness he did. He got to spend those years with her and he loved her with everything he had.

We will miss Bill so much.... Congratulation on a life well-lived.

Our deepest sympathy to Roni, Elyssa, Zach, Jessica, Matea and Willow-
Thank you all for sharing Bill with those of us in the industry that he was so passionate about. He was so proud of his family, which is why so many of us feel like we know you in such a familial way. Journalism will miss Bill´s fearless voice and defense of the free press. I am lucky to be one of the journalists he led, developed and left his mark of excellence on. He was always willing to share his wisdom and instinct as a true newsman. He inspired countless journalists from professionals to students. Please know he was a treasure to every newsroom he led. He was always pulling the best out of his team because he cared. I´m grateful I had the chance to experience his wit, skill, and passion for journalism. I pray you sense God's comfort and peace during this time.

I am so sorry for you loss! Bill was always kind in a work world where things could be extremely hectic and difficult. I worked with him at WBNS and applied for a job with him at channel six. He called me to tell me why I didn't get the job! It was SO KIND off him and I will never forget that! He was a great one!

To the Payer family: Dave and I extend our deepest sympathy for your loss. We consider ourselves fortunate to have known Bill.

Zach, Sharon and Family: sending our deepest condolences to each of you. Kindly, The Kovach Family

Prayers for Roni and the family. Mr Payer will be missed.

Our deepest condolences to Roni and Bill's family. His sudden loss is difficult to accept and we will all miss him. His memory will be long lived.
Dov Rotenberg / Maureen McNichols

My deepest condolences to Roni and the entire Payer family.