William Wilson

Mr. Justice William (Bill) Wilson (Ret) passed away peacefully on September 11, 2022.

Bill was born in Edmonton, Alberta, on June 17, 1933, to Marjorie and William Ernest Wilson. Bill attended school at Garneau Elementary School and the University of Alberta High School in Edmonton.

After high school Bill attended the University of Alberta, obtaining his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1955. He graduated from the University of Alberta in 1956 with his law degree and was the gold medalist in the class of 1956, winning the Horace Harvey gold medal in law.

On graduation, Bill articled to L.Y. Cairns, Q.C. in 1956, completing his articles in 1957 and called to the bar on October 1, 1957. Bill joined the law firm Bryan, Andrekson and Company, now known as Bryan and Company, in 1958. In 1978 Bill was appointed Queen's Counsel.

Bill followed his father's footsteps, Mr. Justice Ernest Wilson, into a lifelong legal career over 50 years, culminating with his appointment to the Court of King's Bench in 1991. Bill was very active in both the legal and civic communities. A member and chairman of the Institute of Law Research and Reform for the province of Alberta. A director of the bar admissions program. A sessional instructor at the University of Alberta faculty of extension, a member of the Canadian Bar Association, and a leader with the United Way.

Bill's life was not all focused on law. A loving husband, father and grandfather. Bill is predeceased by his wife of 59 years, Jean Wilson (Lees) and his only sister, Betty Thompson. Bill is survived by his sons Lee Wilson (Lisa) and Thomas Wilson (Jessie), as well as grandchildren Cody, Blake, Makena and Carson. Hobbies included horseback riding, traveling, spending time with the family, playing backgammon, fishing and enjoying the company of many friends and extended family. The recent outpouring of well wishes, condolences, and offers of support from family, extended family, colleagues, friends, and all those who knew Bill has been overwhelming. The Wilsons say thank you to all who have reached out. We will miss Mr. Justice W.E. "Bill" Wilson, father, grandfather, friend, and mentor.

The family would like to extend their gratitude and thanks to the staff of Exquisicare for their professional care and kindness during Bill's stay.

Because of COVID-19 restrictions late in 2020, a celebration of life will be held for both Bill and Jean Wilson (https://www.connelly-mckinley.com/obituaries/jean-marie-wilson/) on Thursday, October 20, 2022, between 1:30 - 3:30 at the Royal Glenora Club 11160 River Valley Rd, Edmonton. Executive car service is free to anyone who wishes transportation to and or from the venue. To make arrangements, please call Doug Workman at Haywork Secure Driving Service (HSDS) at 780-667-3366.