Having lived in Arizona for all but four years of his life, Bill is proud to consider himself a native Arizonan. Born in Phoenix, raised in Scottsdale, Tucson, Prescott and Pinetop – Lakeside, Bill has seen and loved nearly all of Arizona. Bill graduated from Blue Ridge High School in Pinetop – Lakeside, attended Yavapai College in Prescott and graduated from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, (Bachelor of Science).
Bill’s parents, Jay (former Superior Court Judge, Navajo County) and Sue (former Archivist, Sharlot Hall Museum, Prescott) raised Bill to appreciate Arizona’s wonderful cultural diversity, it’s stunning geologic wonder and the accessible geographical proximity to the varied terrain of the Colorado Plateau and the desert southwest. Day trips, along with camping, hunting and fishing trips throughout Arizona opened his eyes to Arizona’s many wonders. Bill has lived in the mountains of Northern Arizona his entire adult life, feels at home in the four-season environment of Flagstaff and is comfortable working in a climate where Mother Nature can sometimes wreak havoc.
Bill has loved golf, and been around golf courses and golf properties, since he was taught the game by his father at age six. Years of playing the states’ golf courses showed Bill the value of playing the course as you find it, playing the ball as it lies, replacing divots, fixing ball marks and leaving the course better than you found it. Says Bill, “Forest Highlands is obviously at the very top of golf properties, but the same principles apply to maintaining this great facility: Treat it with care and respect, and the courses will reward you with amazing conditioning. Having worked in the Golf Maintenance Department since 1989, it is my intention to continue to provide the membership with tournament quality golf course conditions and outstanding amenities throughout the property. Hard work, attention to detail, unrivaled leadership qualities and a true passion for this wonderful community is what drives me to succeed. I am humbled and honored to be the Director of Agronomy and Grounds.”
Bill has three children; Paul, Isabelle and Carson and is married to the most wonderful woman, the love of his life, Lisa. The Abbey family enjoys travelling and all outdoor activities, especially skiing, hiking, fishing and golf.