Billy had a big presence with his sense of humour and fun. A competent and willing helper whenever a project was underway. Loved spending time with Billy and Wilma at Pt. Au Baril, boating on the shimmery water, picnicing on the rocks and of course, the daily visit to the Ojibway
Bill's quick wit and gentle ways will always be remembered. His love of film was evident in the many productions that we had the pleasure of viewing. I remember the excitement and the love that burst out of him when he had filmed Edie Bruckland for his film about Point au Baril. He truly loved his sweetheart from high school, Wilma. It showed everytime he looked at her. We will think of him often and smile when we do. Bill was a kind and gentle man. Rest in Peace Bill.
As an original Bennington Boy Bill kept us all in stitches and his gags got us into plenty of trouble from time to time.
His fix-it skills got my Halliburton cottage electrically wired with only one inspection.
He kept his love, Wilma, busy with plaintive calls of “Wilma, butter my toast,” as if he was helpless. They said they didn’t need any more kids after Billy. Wilma had enough to do with Bill, and school.
Around our place he became uncle Billy, and maintained that title by scaring the wits out of them over and over again. Usually from a dark closet with a ghostly growl.
He told us stories of travelling professionally with Ann Murray, both “North of 60°”and internationally, and led us on bicycle rides to lake Simcoe, promising that our goal was “just over the next hill”
We’ll miss him!
In the days prior to video cameras, everything from 'spot' news to features was recorded on film. If the item only required a couple of minutes, the unused part of the standard 10-minute roll of film was discarded. Bill and his friend Ted McConville saved these 'short ends' and made funny little joke films. When the time came for Bill to form a ligament company his lawyer asked what name his company should have. Bill thought of his little joke films and said, "Call it Mini Pix." When the lawyer said that wasn't serious enough, Bill said, "How about "Mini Pix International". Thus MPI was borne. Ah... Those were the days.
My condolences to all who knew and loved Bill, especially Jim. Bill had the most deliciously droll sense of humour of anyone I have ever known. Despite the sadness of his passing, I find myself smiling as I remember him.