Bill passed away in Victoria on December 12, 2013. Born in Portland, Oregon on February 13, 1925 he was predeceased by the love of his life, Norah. Dad is survived by his children, Lynn, Tom (Barbara) and Ronald (Laila); his grandchildren, Kimberley, Arya, Aimee and Siina; sister-in-law, Rita Hill and brother-in-law, Pieter Brouwer. Dad also leaves many friends who were very dear to him.
Dad obtained his BA in education from UBC and his MPA from UVIC. He was a teacher, principal and Superintendent of schools. His career took him to Paris and Hemer, Germany where he served with DND schools. He taught throughout the province of BC and was a superintendent of schools in Northern BC and Maple Ridge. Dad’s passion was to contribute to the development of education and had great compassion for his students and colleagues.
Dad was a bigger than life guy who loved to engage and put a smile on everyone’s face. He loved his art, travels and contributing to the community.
The family would like to thank the staff at Douglas House for the care he received. It was exceptional. Also thanks to the Palliative Care and Dr. Fairhurst.
A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.
Donations may be made to the Camosun College Foundation to Establish an Endowment for Nursing Students.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Bros. Funeral Home
www.mccallbros.com
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Fank Bartunek
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John Snively Over the past 10 years I have enjoyed knowing and visiting Bill, especially when I could take him for a spin in my convertible down past the inner harbour and along Dallas Road to the Yacht Club. Whenever we met at Amica House he always found a smile and good humour. I will miss him indeed.
Dr. John
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Gerald Sauder Tom: My sincerest sympathy and condolence on the passing of your father. I know that there is little that anyone can say at this time, however, I wish you to know that I am thinking of you and your family and hope, in time, fond remembrances will replace todays sorrow and distress. Jerry Sauder
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Tom Ellwood It was my privilege and pleasure to work and travel with Bill for many years in the Ministry of Education. I have many great memories of the times we shared together. He was a good friend and colleague.
Our sincere condolences to Bill’s family at this time. Bill will be missed.
Tom Ellwood
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Maggie Banks I am very sad to hear of Bill’s passing. I got to know Bill when I worked in the framing department at Island Blue. I considered him my west coast grandfather (as I am from Ontario and have since returned). He was a wonderful man and I am very glad that I got to know him a little. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this difficult time.
Bill was a terrific colleague at the Ministry of Education in the 1980s.
I always enjoyed his affable personality, wit and genuineness.
He was a wonderful painter and salesman for his art work too.
I proudly own three of his art works and enjoy them too very much!
So his legacy for me continues through his paintings and pastel sketches.
My condolences to Bill’s family. Bill was a very creative, imaginative and artistic personality who delighted people with his interactions.
Most Sincerely,
Frank Bartunek