Obituary of William John Deyell

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Joan, of 56 years, a resident of Fosterbrooke Longterm Care, children David of Burlington, Laura (Bob) McClelland of Bowmanville, and Matt (Nicki) of Oakville. He will be sadly missed by grandchildren Amy, Eliza, Olivia, Natalie and Christopher who were the light of Grandpa’s life. Bill was a loving brother to sister Barb McCauley of Oakville and Joan Rook-Green (predeceased). Bill grew up in Peterborough, before launching a 35 year career with United Co-Operatives (Co-op) of Ontario that took him to Grasshill, Lindsay, Uxbridge, Chatham, Hanover, London and Oakville. After retirement in 1989 Bill became the Executive Director of United Way Oakville and the founding Director of the Community Foundation of Oakville. He joined the Farm Marketing Board in 1990. Bill has been an active church member since marrying Joan, most recently at St Paul’s United Church in Bowmanville. He was a committed volunteer over the years, most recently with Community Care in Durham and the Family Council at Fosterbrooke. Bill remained a deeply devoted husband through Joan’s Alzheimer’s journey. She is the love of his life. Bill always showed a great interest in all the people he met and was happiest when surrounded by family. He lived his life with integrity, generosity, gratitude and faith.