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After a courageous 9-year battle with Alzheimer’s disease, Billy passed away in his 77th year. He said “YES” to family and friends when help was needed, and did so with enthusiasm, selflessness and a big smile on his face. Everyone loved to hear Billy’s contagious laugh and be the recipient of his HUGS. Billy’s wish was to help other dementia patients by donating his brain to science upon his death.
Predeceased by his father Bazel “Bummer” 1990, mother Mary (McTravis) 2000, his sister Joyce (Volume) 2012, his middle son Derek 2013 and his brother Tommy (Lorraine 1993)) 2019. He is survived by his beloved soulmate Jane (Oster) and was the proud father of Rick and Chad (Lyndsay). Proud Bubu to Blake, Evan, Ben, Emmett and Bazel. Greatly missed by his sisters Shirley (Gunther 2022),Marlaine (Art) and Myrna (Roger 2006) (Brian). He will also be missed by his “other siblings” (Carolyn/Gerry, Tom/Anka and Susan). Uncle Billy will be deeply missed by his nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews. Also survived by former daughter in-law Julie. Billy’s close friends through the years, some for decades will miss his sense of humor, loyalty and always being there for them.
Billy was born in South Porcupine and spent his formative years in Virginiatown, Hearst and Kapuskasing. From a young age he excelled in many sports, especially competitive hockey (in the footsteps of his Dad “Bummer”). At the age of 10 he was awarded a trophy for scoring 87 goals in just 11 games. Later in life he lent his skills and passion for hockey by acting as a coach for the Kapuskasing Minor Hockey Association. He continued playing hockey into adulthood until his move to London. He worked at Spruce Falls (Tembec) in the forestry industry for 25 years, up to 1991 first as a scaler and then as a foreman. He was noted for his attention to detail, being a team builder and friend to all.
Upon moving to London, ON in 1992 he followed his entrepreneurial spirit and spent most of the rest of his working life in sales and marketing – a career at which he excelled.
It was while he lived in London that he met his future wife Jane (aka “Girlfriend”), introduced by his nephew and wife, Mike and Cathy Doran The two married in 1995 and Jane became a proud “other mother” to Rick, Derek and Chad. In his early sixties, Billy also worked part-time as the assistant manager in the apartment building where he and Jane have called home for almost19 years. During this time, he won many new fans with his jaunty whistle, his listening ear and his attention to detail. He was known for his ready smile, infectious laugh and helping hands. He was very musical and loved to sing everything from Elvis to Gospel to anyone who would listen.. Even with his advanced dementia, neighbours always commented that he was still friendly and chivalrous, opening the door whenever possible.
In his mid-sixties, Billy joined Whitehills Animal Hospital as their “jack of all trades” – maintenance man, groundskeeper, dog handler, greeter and joke teller…whatever was needed. He always had a smile on his face and shared a ‘mean belly rub’ with his furry friends.
Over the years Billy had the best support system at home while Jane was working. Special thanks to Erren, Tracey, Natisha, Arden, Lynn and Lisa who always made Billy laugh, feel safe encourage his dancing and singing skills and feel important. The numerous videos and pictures they took are forever wonderful memories for the family.
A huge thank you to the staff at the Salvation Army Adult Day Program for their loving care and support of Billy over the past five years and for making him “Instagram” famous!
Thanks to the Alzheimer Society Southwest Partners family for their knowledge and support over many years. Billy was proud to be an ambassador – his image gracing numerous promotional items.
A special shout-out to the drivers from the Boys & Girls Club who got Billy to and from the Salvation Army Adult Day Program with care and compassion and always got him to laugh.
Thank you to the doctors, nurses and PSWs who provided excellent care to Billy while he was a patient at both LHSC and Victoria hospitals.
A Celebration of Life is being held Sunday, November 10th between 1-4pm at Sunningdale Golf Club. Casual dress.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the following organizations that meant so much to Billy.
– Salvation Army Adult Day Program
www.salvationarmyvillage.ca/donate-now
Alzheimer’s Southwest Partners
alzswp.ca/
Operation Smile Canada (Billy said everyone should feel comfortable to SMILE)
www.operationsmile.org/
1948 2024
Death notice for the town of: London, Province: Ontario
death notice Bazel
William John
Billy
Doran 1948 2024
obituaries notice Bazel
William John
Billy
Doran 1948 2024
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Bazel
William John
Billy
Doran 1948 2024 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
