William H. Cameron (Dad), a cherished husband, father and amazing friend to all who had the pleasure of knowing him, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2024, at Crescent Gardens Care home. He was 100 years old.
Born in Brandon Manitoba, on January 22, 1924, he married his childhood sweetheart Joyce Wright. They were married for 70 wonderful years before Joyce’s passing in 2019.
Bill leaves behind three children, Brian (Danielle), Cheryl (Kelly) and Donna (Glenn), 8 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. He cherished them all. He is also survived by his sister Maxine.
As a family growing up in Burnaby, British Columbia, Dad was a benchmark of strength for the family. He provided great guidance and wisdom as we matured into adults.
Dad joined the Royal Canadian Navy in 1943 at the age of 19 and trained in Halifax as a gunner on board the HMCS Kitchener. On D-Day the Kitchener sailed alongside the USS Augusta, escorting and protecting barges of soldiers landing on Omaha beach. In the months after D-Day, his ship made several crossings of the Atlantic protecting Navy and Merchant Sea vessels from aircraft and U-boats. In recognition of his service Dad was awarded the French Legion of Honor medal, the highest medal awarded by the French Government, for his gallant efforts in protecting Allied forces during the liberation of Europe.
Throughout his life our dad and mom had seven homes starting in Burnaby, then North Delta and finally in South Surrey. Dad was extremely handy and made each of our houses into homes, with countless memories that remain today.
Dad enjoyed a very successful business career in the commercial adhesive market in British Columbia. His instinctive understanding and problem-solving capabilities led him to become a successful representative for the Borden Chemical Company. He implicitly understood manufacturing and the consequent variables that could affect product outcome.
Dad retired at age 65. Throughout his 35 years of retirement, he and Joyce enjoyed traveling in their various RV’s, spending time with family and always learning.
Moving into a suite, with our mother at Crescent Gardens in South Surrey was a huge adjustment. Over 8 years they made many friends and found a source of community.
On June 1, 2024, Dad was packed and ready to return to Normandy for the 80th commemoration of D-Day. It was a dream dad had for a long time.
Though he did not get to return to France he was able to enjoy the anticipation and excitement of the planning of the trip. He passed away just hours from boarding his plane for France.
Our family would like to thank all the staff and residents at Chartwell Crescent Gardens for the love and care they gave to our dad. We would especially like to thank his special friend, Kees Koster, who provided dad with strength and fellowship.
Though Dad may no longer walk beside us, his spirit will live on in our hearts and in those who loved him so much.
Dad, you will be loved forever.
-Brian, Cheryl, Donna and family
A celebration of Dad’s life will be held on June 29, 2024, 1pm at Peninsula United Church, Crescent site, 2756 127th Street Surrey BC.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in support of the Juno Beach Centre in Courseullessur Mer , France website., Junobeach.org
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