Bill Burrell, 96, died peacefully February 3, 2022, at Woodhall Park Care Community. Born January 27, 1926, in Brampton, the son of Jack and Grace (nee Babcock) Burrell.
After embellishing his age, he enlisted in 1943 serving with the Royal Canadian Air Force as Pilot Officer, Bomber Command in Europe during World War II. He flew 32 missions over Europe in a heavy bomber returning home to Brampton before the age of 19. He spent his working years at Canada Post as one of Brampton’s original six letter carriers – twice daily delivery, and once on Saturday – retiring after 40 years with unblemished attendance.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister Bobbi Campbell (1979); and second wife of 35 years, Carole Thompson (2017). Fondly remembered by his children, Pam O’Sullivan; Doug Burrell; Jocelyn (Doug) Presant; Fred (deceased 2016) (Leanne) Burrell; Laura (Deb) Burrell; stepchildren, Jan Thompson & Cindy Harris; grandchildren, Leah, Rachel, Lindsey, Kathryn, Greg, Jim, Mike, Melissa, Scott; and 12 great-grandchildren, along with many close friends and extended family. And not to be forgotten, Bill will be dearly missed by George “Potsy” Burrows – his best friend / partner in crime / comrade of over 75 years.
Awarded the 1939/45 Star, the France/Germany Star, the CVS Medal and Clasp, Operation Wings, Air Gunners Badge, and the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal. He was made Brampton Citizen of the Year in 2005 and was the long time Poppy Campaign Chairman, raising over $700,000 which supports Veterans and their families. Bill was the recipient of the Paul Harris Award through Brampton Rotary – highest Rotary honour given to someone who has made an outstanding contribution to the community. Past-president and lifetime member of both Brampton Minor Hockey Association, and Ontario Minor Hockey Association. He was a builder of the Brampton Sports Hall of Fame, a faithful volunteer with the Canadian Red Cross, the Ontario Minor Hockey Association, as well as Canada Post’s Letters to Santa program.
Due to current circumstances a service will be held for immediate family only.
For those who wish to remember Bill in a special way, donations can be made to the following:
• Brampton Hockey/OMHA – Cheques can be made payable to:
BRAMPTON HOCKEY INC.
Tax receipt not available / Notation of Bill Burrell in the memo field
Mail cheques to: Brampton Hockey
8950 McLaughlin Rd S,
Brampton, ON
L6Y 5T1
• National Poppy Trust Fund – Online at legion.ca/donations
or cheques can be made payable to:
The Royal Canadian Legion Dominion Command Poppy Trust Fund
Mail cheques to: The Royal Canadian Legion National Headquarters
86 Aird Place, Ottawa, ON K2L 0A1
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of William Bill Edward Burrell Thursday February 3rd 2022..
Death notice for the town of: Brampton, Province: Ontario