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Bill Ryce Obituary
My one and only true love, Dad, Poppy, Gampy, Pastor, Mr. Ryce, Bill. He has been known by all of these names for the last 83 years. It is with broken hearts that we have to announce that on September 26, 2024 at 2:35 pm, Bill was taken home to be with the Lord.
Bill was born in Kingston on August 1, 1941 to William and Evelyn Ryce who came to Canada from Scotland to start a new life. He had 2 sisters, Evelyn McGill & Betty Myers who passed before him as well as a baby brother who passed during child birth.
Bill was an avid sports fan and loved his golf, ball games, the Montreal Canadiens aka ‘The Habs’ and last but not least, fishing for bass with his son Bill Ryce Jr. He began to go blind early on in his life at the age of 15 and eventually became totally blind. This did not stop him though. He became the blind golf champion of Ontario and always enjoyed listening to the hockey and baseball games on TV. He would do his own yardwork and even use a chainsaw to cut wood. He loved to dance out on the deck with his wife of 68 years, Mina Ryce.
He knew that something was missing in his life though and turned to God. He became a born again Christian and even became a minister. He travelled all over the place with his wife Mina to spread the gospel and bring others to the Lord.
His Grandchildren wanted to share some thoughts and feelings about their Grandfather.
From Mitch.
“William Ryce “Poppy” was a man of many talents. I can remember how in shape he was, going to the gym, biking and golfing. He had a strength about him that was silent and steady. But how strong he was could only be rivaled by how gentle he was. A gentle smile; a way with words that made you feel like everything is going to be okay; a hug that meant safety. Poppy was very witty. Talk about the Habs and you’re bound to get a sharp comeback and a laugh along with it. I can remember many days and nights spent with my grandfather. We’d watch movies with homemade popcorn and milkshakes, never forgetting to give me a top up after I downed the first serving. He would listen in during sermons I’d make as a child, often trying to copy the way he delivered his during Sundays. I looked up to him in so many ways. I could go on and on about how he cherished his great-granddaughter Emma. She was his “little angel”. They would speak and his voice would almost crack and soften up every time. I’ll really miss their relationship. Poppy was a lover. He loved hockey, fishing, The Lord, his dogs. He loved his family. He loved his Mina (Nan) so much. For almost 70 years, Nan and Pop were a power couple. You would rarely see one without the other. A true team that depended on each other, looked out for each other, and unwavered in their love for each other. Poppy will be remembered for the man he was. Strong, gentle, sharp, loving. All characteristics that I strive to be in my daily life with my family. We will miss him so much. Love Mitch, Emma, and Shauna.”
From Ashley.
“I would like to reflect on the person Poppy was. I could write here for the better part of the day and reminisce about all the stories Poppy was either part of or that he told, and for those of you who knew Poppy (Bill, Mr Ryce), you understand how long those stories could be. Overall, I would like to remember the person Poppy was and what he has done for everyone he has met. While I’m sure every person who has crossed his path has something to be grateful for I know that I am extra grateful to call him my Poppy. He was a respected man of the church and above all else a family man. He had a love for sports, fishing and his yellow labs, Bo, Simba and Nemo. He shared his life with the love of his life of 68 years Mina, who is also known as Nanny. He leaves behind his Great Grandchildren Landon & Emmett who will cherish every memory they have with “Poppy with the sick eyes“. From sitting on his lap for tickles to fishing. We will speak of him often so his memories are not forgotten. I am so grateful for all my childhood memories from attending church services , summers camping in their yard , hearing him preach as a young adult and being married by him. Poppy always had the ability to have a witty comeback for almost any conversation, something that he definitely passed on to everyone in the family. His big smile always brightened any room. Nanny & Poppy never asked for much. They lived in a modest home, and never took anything in life for granted. Their acts of kindness to others would never go unnoticed and underappreciated. He was a truly great man. We hope you were met in heaven with wet kisses from Bo, Simba and Nemo and given back your sight. We know we have gained another angel watching over us all until we meet again Love you!”
From Alicia.
“It overwhelms us with sadness to say goodbye, but it is a great honor to have had the pleasure. The pleasure of memories and moments that we keep so close to our hearts while we grieve and while we share his stories. The pleasure of calling him my Poppy. Poppy…. a name not many call their Grandfather. He and I took a trip to Cuba for a week. He said, I just want to feel the sand in my toes during the colder months, one last time before it’s no longer a privilege. While we were there, the looks we got anytime I would call him Poppy were fairly entertaining to say the least. We later came to understand that young women call their older lovers ‘Pappi’. Of course, we laughed while surely everyone else rolled in discomfort. This is one of those moments and memories that I will remember and continue to laugh and smile about. My grandfather lived an extraordinary life, and without going into detail, I can only begin to express my respect, my pride and my love for this man. A hard working and honest soul is always one that we will remember. Until I see you xoxo Alicia ”
“I still see your face before me, your voice I long to here.
I miss and love you deeply, God knows I wish you were here.
Tears fall freely from my eyes like a river, filled with grief.
My only comfort now is from pain, you’ve found relief”
Bill will be leaving behind his wife Mina, his loving son and fishing buddy Bill Ryce Jr (Angie), his loving daughter Bonnie Monette (Ryan). Poppy of Mitch Monette (Shauna), Ashley Cote (Gage) and Alicia Edgar (Tyler). Great Grandfather to Emma, Landon, Emmett and Izzy.
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August 1 1941
September 26 2024
Death notice for the town of: Kingston, Province: Ontario
death notice Bill Ryce August 1 1941
September 26 2024
obituaries notice Bill Ryce August 1 1941
September 26 2024
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Bill Ryce August 1 1941
September 26 2024 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
