WHEELER, William Scott
December 3, 1957 - February 18, 2006
It is with great sadness that Scott's family and many friends announce the passing of this popular director, producer, actor, playwright, teacher, master of ceremonies, Rotarian and president of the White Rock Players Club for many terms.
Scott, who had been ill for several years, and had suffered a rapid decline over the last two months, died at home in South Surrey, peacefully and in his sleep.
He is survived by his brother, John (Tannis) and his nephew Darcy, aunt Jean Keayes, also by daughters Tara Flynn (Sam), Amy McCarthy (Michael), Megan Leblanc (Jamie), son Alex Reich (Careen), granddaughters Mya Harmer and Isobel McCarthy and many other relatives, close friends and extended family throughout B.C.
He was predeceased by his father Bill and mother Yvonne.
Born and raised in Newton, Scott wrote and directed his first productions while attending Princess Margaret Secondary, and later studied theatre at U.B.C.
In 1975 he was one of the founders of the Surrey-based Atomic Blueberry Company, and subsequently worked with White Rock Summer Theatre; in the late 1970's he joined White Rock Players Club and was subsequently involved in hundreds of productions at White Rock Playhouse, and at other venues including Surrey Arts Centre and Metro Theatre in Vancouver.
He was also a principal instructor at, and subsequently owner of Peace Arch Performing Arts Academy, a member of the White Rock Rotary Club and a popular speaker and master of ceremonies for special events, and was in the forefront of fundraising for the current rebuilding of the White Rock Playhouse.
In 2005 he was presented with a Lifetime Achievement award by the Community Theatre Coalition; many will remember him for his appearances as the Dame in White Rock Players Club Christmas pantomimes and in Spirit of the Sea Festivals, as well as for his acting in and direction of musicals, comedies and serious dramas.
A celebration of Scott's life is planned for Saturday, Feb 25, 2006 at 11:30 a.m. at the Wheelhouse Theatre (Earl Marriott Secondary) 15751 - 16th Ave., Surrey.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the theatre rebuilding fund are suggested.