William M. Ketchum

William Matthew Ketchum (September 2, 1921 – June 24, 1978) was an American businessman and Republican Party politician who served as a member of the California State Assembly from 1967 to 1973 and as a member of the United States House of Representatives from 1973 until his death.

Early Life and Education

Ketchum was born on September 2, 1921, in Los Angeles, California. He attended schools in Los Angeles County and a military school in North Hollywood, California. He studied at the Colorado School of Mines from 1939 to 1940 and at the University of Southern California from 1940 to 1942.

Military Service

He entered the United States Army in 1942 and served in the Pacific theater during World War II before his discharge in 1946. Ketchum was recalled into service during the Korean War and served from 1950 to 1953.

Career

After World War II, Ketchum owned and operated a hardware and auto-supply store from 1946 to 1950. Following the Korean War, he worked as a salesman from 1953 to 1957. He later engaged in cattle ranching and farming. He was a member of the Republican State Central Committee from 1964 to 1966.

Political Career

Ketchum served in the California State Assembly from 1967 to 1973, representing the 29th district. He was also a delegate to the 1968 Republican National Convention.

In 1972, he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, defeating Democratic opponent Timothy Lemucci by 12 percentage points (52.7% to 43.5%). He was reelected twice, serving from January 3, 1973, until his death. His congressional district changed from the 36th district (1973–1975) to the 18th district (1975–1978) due to redistricting. He was succeeded by Bill Thomas.

Death

On June 24, 1978, Ketchum suffered a heart attack at his home in Bakersfield, California, and was pronounced dead on arrival at Kern Medical Center at the age of 56.

Electoral History