January 6, 1938 – November 1, 2024
at the age of 86 years:     

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of William Francis “Bill” Crotty at the age of 86, at Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops, BC, on November 1, 2024, with his wife Adria and daughter Karen by his side.

Bill brought warmth and humor to all who knew him. Known for his quick wit and hearty laugh, Bill will be fondly remembered by family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.

Bill was predeceased by his parents John and Ann Crotty, brothers Derm, Ed and sisters Joan and Marg, and various Aunts and Uncles. Bill was survived by his beloved wife, Adria,; daughters, Karen Gutsch and Sandy Moulton; stepdaughter, Michele Mathisen; grandchildren Lyndsay Gutsch (Jeff), Marissa Gutsch (Riley), Meraka Moulton (Connor), Mitchell Moulton (Jesse ), Mackenzie Moulton (Teanna), Todd Mathisen, and Brent Mathisen; sisters, Lorraine Van Rompaey (Alf) Patricia Duff (Glad), Sister Marie Crotty, brother John Crotty (Florence), sister-in-laws Rose Crotty and Christie Dymond (Paul), and various other Nieces, Nephews, Aunts and Uncles.

As a young man, Bill started his career with the Iron Ore Company of Canada as a crane operator in Labrador City, and then got the opportunity to work on an Oil Rig in Newfoundland.  In 1978, He relocated to Grande Prairie, Alberta , to work as a crane operator for Adam Crane and also with Albrico Services.

 Later, Bill and Adria retired to Chase, BC, where they spent their days boating on the lake and sharing memorable evenings at the legion with friends.

A true outdoorsman at heart, Bill loved fishing, camping, and hunting, and he always looked forward to his travels, especially spending time in Mexico with his wife Adria and other family and friends. Whether he was challenging friends to washers, a game of crib, or golf, Bill was known for his love of fun and camaraderie. He was an avid Legion goer and always enjoyed a Molson Canadian – as long as it was in a glass bottle. Bill was a dedicated Toronto Blue Jays fan and a man who could fix just about anything, a real Macgyver. He was the kind of neighbor who would shovel your driveway without being asked and build an ice rink for the neighborhood kids. He had a generous heart, often donating bikes and toys to children in need, and was deeply caring to his family and friends.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Nurses Jenn , Henry, and the hospital staff on floor 6N of Royal Inland Hospital for their compassionate care during Bill’s final days.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill’s memory can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Bill will be deeply missed, but his laughter, kindness, and adventurous spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Family and friends will honor his remarkable life with celebrations in their own cities.