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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
COULING, Wilbur (Bill) - It's with deep sadness, we wish to announce the peaceful passing of Wilbur (Bill) Couling at 99 years old with family at home in West Vancouver on October 17, 2024.
Bill is survived by his loving wife of 75 years Yvonne (Bonnie) Couling (nee Battrum), sister Eileen Kamm nee Couling and by his children Lynda Alfreds (Kim), Debbie Tremblay (Ray), David Couling (Debbie), and Dianne Corlin (Steve), 9 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.
Bill was predeceased by his parents Isaac (Harry) Couling and Helen Couling (nee Jefferson).
Bill's parents were temporarily managing a grocery store in Kamloops when Bill was born on August 29, 1925. Three months later the family moved back to Vancouver. Harry managed a grocery store on Dunbar Street in Vancouver. At 3 years old, Bill's job was turning the cans front-facing on the shelves so the customers could read them.
Bill began his school years at Langara Elementary. He went to Kitsilano Jr. High and graduated Grade 12 from Lord Byng High in 1943.
After graduation, Bill enlisted in the Royal Canadian Navy and signed on to the aircraft carrier HMCS Warrior.. They were deployed to Europe, the Mediterranean and the Pacific theatre War. After returning from the war, Bill was employed by CPR in the claims department. He went on to work at Mainland Transfer and later Lance Bissett Limited where he retired after many decades. Bill had a special bond and great respect for Lance Bissett. He was deeply saddened when Lance Bissett passed away in the 1970's. Bill continued to work at Lance Bissett Ltd. He became the president and owner of the company in 1976. Bill enjoyed his years at Lance Bissett. He made many good friends throughout those years.
In the summer of 1949 at Wreck Beach in Vancouver, Bill met the love of his life, Bonnie Battrum. They married January 27, 1950, the coldest January on record! Bill and Bonnie made their home in South Burnaby where they had 4 children before moving to West Vancouver in December of 1965. They remained devoted to each other for 75 years. A true love story and inspiration to everyone who knew them.
Bill began learning to play the oboe at the age of 10. By 14 he was in the Vancouver Junior Symphony and joined the Vancouver Symphony at 17. He became professional at 19 years old. He played with Vancouver Symphony, Calgary Symphony, Halifax Symphony and Victoria Symphony among others at times. Bill also played for CBC Radio in Vancouver, Theatre Under The Stars, the Queen Elizabeth Theatre's performances such as My Fair Lady, Guys and Dolls and many other shows that came to Vancouver. Bill did this in the evenings while working at Lance Bissett and his previous jobs during the day. Bill made the decision to retire from music in the summer of 1965.
Bill and Bonnie enjoyed traveling together to many countries around the world. They were always planning their next trip and made many friends on their travels. They cherished the times when they vacationed with family and that was often. Like their home, family and friends were always welcome.
The Family would like to thank the caregivers Evelyn, Marisol, Grace, Jocelyn, Helen and others provided by Hero Home Care for their kindness and the wonderful care given to Dad right up until the end.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a Charity of Your Choice. (The North Shore New 30 Oct 2024)
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