December 28, 1946 – January 27, 2019
at the age of 72 years
A Celebration of his Life is being planned at a later date, details to be provided to family and close friends.
It is with great sadness that the family announces the sudden passing of William James (Bill) Burton on Sunday, January 27, 2019 at the age of 72 years. He will be forever remembered by his wife Joan and daughters Karen, Sandy and Brenda (Jeff). Bill will also be fondly remembered by his grandchildren, Zachary, Ryea, Tyler, Katelyn, Megan, Cole, and Sophie, his sisters and brothers, Margaret (Ross), Alec (Ruth), Carol (Dave), and Glenn, extended family, and dear friends.
Bill was born in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Throughout his life and career Bill and Joan lived in various cities. Retiring from the gas industry in 2002, they moved from Victoria to Nanoose Bay and eventually settling in Blind Bay, BC in 2013. Bill attended St. Mary’s Anglican-United Church in Sorrento, BC. He had a passion for painting and was a member of the Blind Bay Painters Association for the past 4 years. Bill also enjoyed the outdoors and spending time with family and friends. He is known for his quick wit, his infectious smile and his kind, generous soul. Bill will be missed more than words can describe but as he would always say “Keep Smiling!”
There will be no service as per Bill’s wishes. A Celebration of his Life is being planned at a later date, details to be provided to family and close friends.
We are deeply saddened to hear of Bill’s passing. He was a gentle man and a gentleman. His humor, smile and kindness will not be forgotten. To Joan and family hold close the wonderful memories of a husband, father and grandfather.
Hans & Sharon
Nanoose Bay
Bill
I am missing your wonderful warm spontaneous smile, quick wit and unconditional warmth.Sending you and Jonie lots of love and light on your new journey. Deeply saddened by your passing Bill. Jonie I am here to help in any way possible.
Marilyn!!
Joan, I’m so very sorry for your loss. I just heard of Bill’s sudden passing. He was always willing to help me do “guy” things that I didn’t know how to do and his smile brightened my day. He will be missed by many.
Whenever I encountered Bill I knew instinctively my day was about to get lighter, warmer, and would involve laughter. He was a special person, who’s passing diminishes us all.
To Joan:
Just read of Bill’s passing in the paper today. May I offer my condolences to you and your family. If there is anything I can do, please do not hesitate to call or e mail.
Bill was truly a great friend. Through Bill I got my job at Twin City Gas in 1966. We had a lot of trips together for work and leisure, and our younger years were something to remember. Lakehead University for a couple of years, the ski trips to Lutsen and Ashland Wisconsin….the times at camps like Loon Lake,& Shebandowan…the runs with the boys to Minneapolis and Duluth…the numerous libations over the past 56 years and although time and distance kept us apart, we still always kept in touch either by phone or email. Bill was the type of gentleman that was always there for you and could always be counted on. That sense of humour and laugh was unmatchable and will surely be missed. Our last get togethers were in Arizona for golfing and Palm Springs for social times. RIP buddy.
Bill and I had many good times in the Thunder Bay office of the gas utility.
I was shocked to read of Bill’s passing in the Thunder Bay paper. He and I had many laughs over his pun-making ability. I will always fondly remember
our great
visit this past summer.
I was so sorry to hear of Bill’s sudden passing. His beaming smile and twinkle in his eyes was always uplifting to all he met.
It was a shock to hear about Bill’s sudden passing. We enjoyed our friendship when we moved to Victoria. Bill sponsored me when I joined the Gyro Club of Victoria. Joan and he were very active in the club during their time in Victoria and we and those who were members then will miss him.
Andy and I are so sorry to hear of Bill’s sudden death. We shared many happy times together over the years both in Sherwood Park and Nanoose Bay. Bill had a quick wit and always enjoyed getting together with his golf buddies. We extend our deepest condolences to Joan and her family, Bill will be sorely missed.
Very saddened to read of Bill’s passing. He was a great guy and will be missed by many.
Deepest condolences.
So sorry for your loss Joan remember the good times
We will miss you Bert! You were a great friend to everyone and a great neighbour. I still look for the garage door to be open every time I walk by the house in Nanoose.