Wiley Joseph Hall of Dana Point, CA passed away at home with his wife at his side on June 27, 2023.
He was born in Benton, IL on February 19, 1944 to the late Herbert and Julia Hall. His sister, Betty Bauer, preceded him in death. Wiley is survived by his wife Mary, son Matthew (wife Tamao, daughters Kalei, Maya, Melia, Aya) of Kauai, HI, daughter Rebecca of Orange, CA, brothers Duane (wife Janet) and Scott (wife Ruth) of Franklin, TN, and sister Cynthia Coughlin of Mt Vernon, IL.
Wiley was a multisport athlete at Benton High School. His basketball scholarship earned him a spot on the team at Rice University in Houston, TX, where he had a very successful playing career. Wiley enlisted in the Army and jumped at the opportunity to pilot helicopters. Wiley flew an impressive 859 Medivac missions in an eleven-month period while in Viet Nam. He was awarded the Silver Star for his valor.
Back in civilian life, Wiley was involved in establishing the early trauma system in Illinois, then Miami, and, finally, So California at USC. Wiley enjoyed sharing his athletic skills and expertise with multiple youth programs. He loved golf outings and pool playing with his buddies in competitive pool tournaments in So Cal and Las Vegas. Wiley continued his national service locally as Service Officer for the VFW. Wiley pursued well-earned entitlements and benefits for Vets and their dependents from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
A memorial service will be held on Monday, August 21 at 4 p.m. at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 33501 Stone Hill Drive, Dana Point. Memorial contributions may be made to Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 9934, 33282 Golden Lantern #103, Dana Point, CA