William Harold Hill

Born and raised in Coleman, Alberta, Bill's family moved to Eckville, Alberta, where they lived on the shores of Sylvan Lake for many years. After a short stint in the army, Bill met Mary Hollingshead in his travels, on a train bound for Vancouver from Toronto. After a short courtship they married in Toronto and then settled in Calgary. During that time they were active members of North Hill Church of the Nazarene and Calvary Temple Pentecostal Church and proudly celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in 2007.

Bill worked as a machinist for CP Rail for 33 years, and after retiring in 1981 went on to enjoy 34 more happy years. Mary and Bill resided in a number of places during their retirement, including Westbourne Place, Spruce Lodge and Aspen Lodge in Calgary, making many friends along the way.

Bill loved people and brought joy into the lives of those around him with his warm smile, soft chuckle and kind words. He was often found singing cowboy songs, playing his harmonica, telling a story or talking about his Finnish family roots.

Despite having physical limitations affecting his mobility and independence in his later years, Bill kept his cheerful disposition and continued to find joy in every day. He was always kind and respectful to the people around him, and managed to bring a smile to the faces of his friends, family, caregivers and even complete strangers, right up until his last day. His presence will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Bill was predeceased by his wife Mary and siblings Onnie, Tom, Mamie and Elma. He is survived by his son McKay (Shirley); daughter Sharon; daughters-in-law Christine and Jefa; grandchildren Todd (Danielle), Laurie, Robb (Amy), Deborah and Aria; great-grandchildren Alora, Isaac, Hank, Eli and Harlon; and several cousins, nieces and nephews across Canada, the US and in Finland.

A Celebration of Life will be held at SOUTH CALGARY FUNERAL CENTRE, 12700 Macleod Trail South on Monday, February 8, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. Those wishing to make a donation in Bill's memory to The Friends Of The Colonel Belcher may do so online at www.focbs.ca, or directly by mail to Calgary Health Trust, 800 11012 Macleod Trail SE, Calgary AB, T2J 6A5 Attn: Friends of the Colonel Belcher Society.