I knew Bill for a couple of years when I worked at the Oakmoor Esso Service Station. Bill would come in regularly to buy his coffee and smokes. I always looked forward to his visits as he would have the most amazing stories about old Hollywood and old cars. We affectionately called him, “Old Car Bill”. He even convinced me once to put some money on some stocks his son had recommended, but I had to move away due to family circumstances and never followed up with him. The last time I saw Bill was in the Peter Lougheed Hospital when he had his first stroke. There he was quite exhausted and yet he was still trying to make me laugh. He was such a joyful person! I’ll never forget him! He’s up there now, playing cards with Dean Martin! My condolences to Jeannie and the family.

We are friends from Ontario who knew the Merritt family as young people at school. We still keep in contact with Carol. We are sorry to learn of the death of Bill. May all your loving memories of the good times help you and your family through this sad time.

Jeanie and family We are so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. He was quite the guy …even with all he has been through he always showed his happy self . He will be missed by many. Dad will sure miss his buddy at Braeside.

Email from Zoya Kuksina in Novokuznetsk, central Siberia, in Russia

I grieve with all about Bill’s death.

You tell Jeannie that I tomorrow I will be in the church. I will be pray and put a candle for Bill

Dear Aunt Jeannie & Family,

Please accept our deepest and heartfelt sympathy, to you, especially; Aunt Jeannie and All of your Family at this most difficult time.

May loving memories bring you comfort and peace.

Love Patti and Family

My conversations with Bill, over the last while, have been a delight. Bill’s contributions to his interests seemed vast and valued. It has been an honour to know Bill, to support him and Jeannie, and he will be greatly missed by all that knew him. I wish for Jeannie, that she cling to the memories of how Bill enriched the lives of those around him, the beautiful times they have had, and that she find comfort knowing that his discomfort and challenges are now no longer. I am sad for those of us left behind, I am especially sad for Jeannie and family, and this world was made better by Bill’s presence, and may we all grasp adventures in our life, the way he did!

Jeannie & Family So sorry to hear of Bills passing . He put up a courageous fight with dignity and always a smile .

Bill and I grew up on the same street, in small town Ontario, but I never forgot the days of fun playing hockey with him. We remember our friends, always… Condolences to the family.

Our condolences to the family. Bill’s support for the Southwest Seniors was beyond measure.

His presence will be missed.

Jeannie and Family

I am so very, very sorry. He fought such a tough battle and I really thought he would ‘win’ this one too. I will really miss him coming in each week for a coffee and a chat. I’ll always treasure Bill’s friendship.

Linda Krebs

We are sad to hear of Bill’s passing. Bill always looked on the brighter side of life. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Jeannie and your family

Linda Stearns and family

Des Peplinski

My sympathy to Jeannie & Bill’s family. Bill did so many good things for Southwest Seniors. I enjoyed joking with him so much.

The last thing that Zoya did before she left for Siberia for three months was to give Bill & Jeannie a big hug. We will all support each other to make the best possible future.

Dear Jeannie & Family

Our deepest sympathy goes out to you all at this difficult time. God Bless You All. Love Doug & Betty Wakeford & Family.

Jeanie and Gordie,

My deepest condolence to you and your family in the loss Dear Bill. He will be missed by all who knew him.

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your Family at this most difficult time of your life. May he rest in peace.

Please accept my deepest and heartfelt sympathy, to you and your Family.

May loving memories bring you comfort and peace.

So sorry for your loss hugs

Dear Jeannie and family

We are so sorry to hear of Bill passing. I considered Bill a good friend also long lasting (20+ yrs). He will be dearly missed as a friend and valued club member. Our condolences to you and your family.

Love Brian and Nadine Waterman

My sincere condolences to Jeannie & family on the loss of Bill, he was a great guy many happy memories.

To a good friend and true individual who’s passion for life was reflective in the most ambitious and positive ways through joy and adversity.

It was a privilege and honor to know you Bill.

You will be sorely missed by all.

In remembrance.