May 23, 2019
It is with great sadness that we announce that Bill, age 95, passed away peacefully at Peace Arch Hospital with his family by his side. Bill was born in Ipswich, England and was the youngest of five children. He is predeceased by his parents, Herbert and Florence, brothers George, Raymond, Ken and sister Jessie. Influenced by his oldest brother, he was eager to join his countrymen in WWII and at the age of 18 enlisted in the Royal Airforce. He was sent to Canada to train in Quebec as a navigator. On completing his training he was posted to the South East Asian Command. He flew many missions in B-24 Liberators and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal. After the war, Bill came to Canada making his way to the West Coast and for a time working for MacMillan Bloedel on Vancouver Island, finally settling in Vancouver where he worked specializing in the inspection and testing of construction materials. In 1948, through close friends, Bill met his future wife, Michelle and in 1951 they married and together they raised three children. Bill, a devoted family man, was known for his quick wit and keen sense of humour and always loved a good laugh. Bill enjoyed gardening, travelling and long walks, usually with a dog by his side.
He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Michelle, children; Tony (Cheryl), Christine (Greg) and Jacquie (Hugh). He was immensely proud of his three grandsons; Chris (Andrea), Matt and Tim (Michelle) and was a proud great- grandfather to Bruno, Bryce and Jack. He also leaves his niece and nephew, Jane Bradburn (England) and Bill (Chrystene) Bailey (New Zealand).
Bill was the consummate English gentleman even in his battle against Alzheimer's. Our sincere thanks to the nurses and care aides at Suncrest Retirement Community for taking such good care of Bill.
We raise a martini to you Dad (gin, extra dry). We will miss you immensely. As per Bill's wishes there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Alzheimer's Society or the BC Wildlife Rescue Association.
Condolences may be offered online at www.victorymemorialpark.com
Victory Memorial Park Funeral Centre