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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
VICKERS, William Henry (Bill) - passed away peacefully after a brief illness at the age of 95. He was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba and enjoyed a good upbringing with his parents and eight siblings.
Bill excelled at sports, especially hockey. He was the last surviving member of the 1943 Memorial Cup Champions Winnipeg Rangers. The team was inducted into the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame in 2002. He served in the Navy during World War II. His service meant a lot to him and he was proud to display his veteran’s license plate. After the war, he was to invited to play for the New York Rangers farm team, the New York Rovers. He turned down the offer and decided to come to Nelson to play for the Senior Maple Leafs. It was in Nelson that he met the love of his life, Mary Ling, and they were married in 1947. Bill and Mary moved to Rossland in 1958 where they have lived ever since.
He worked hard as a City Administrator of Rossland and things ran smoothly with him at the helm. Bill spent many years coaching hockey and enjoying family times like camping and fishing (untangling lines). He loved golf and curling as his seasonal activities. He “shot his age” at Redstone at the age of 88 with his golfing buddy, Roger McKeown, by his side. He threw the ceremonial first stone at the Legion’s Men’s Provincial Championship at age 92 and he drew to the button. Bill was very involved in his church and his deep faith helped him throughout his life. He was well known for his sense of humor and was a master of the one-liners.
He is survived by his loving wife of 72 years, Mary, his children Terry (Helen), Judy Jarrett, Janet (Don) Ferrey, Ken (Lori) and Kathy. He was blessed with thirteen grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by sisters, Margaret and Frances (Jim) and brother Joe and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his daughter, Laurine, his son, Patrick and his grandson, Christopher. He was also predeceased by his parents, four sisters and one brother.
He was an amazing husband and father offering quiet wisdom and guidance. He was always supportive and gave sound advice when needed. We will miss him dearly.
Mass of Celebration will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Rossland on Saturday, March 2, 2019 at 10:00 am with Father Nino Tuyo, Celebrant. Al Grywacheski of Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Services has been entrusted with arrangements. (Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Services™)
Ships served in: * Commenced Active Service13 May 1943 as an Ordinary Seaman, RCNVR HMCS LA HULLOISE - Bill was serving in LA HULLOISE during her action with U-1302 * Demobilized 08 Oct 1945
Able Seaman Bill Vickers Click on the above photo to view a larger image
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