Bill passed away on his 78th birthday, 5 June 2024, while residing at the Rideau Veterans Residence, Perley Health Center, Ottawa. He was the eldest son of Ken and Mary Reed, both deceased, of Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. He leaves to remember him his loving and devoted wife Karen, his daughter Beth (Adam Kusch), granddaughter Ella, his sister Carole (Bill Harris) and brother Bob (Leslie), sister-in-law Linda (late Peter Newton), as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, colleagues and friends.
Bill was born, raised and educated in Saskatchewan. While at university (B.A., ‘66, LL.B. ‘69) he enrolled and served in the RCN(R). After graduation and upon being called to the Bar, he entered into private practice in Prince Albert where he remained until he enrolled in the CF Regular Force as a legal officer in the Office of the Judge Advocate General (JAG).
His close to 35 year career as a military lawyer had taken him throughout Canada, Europe, the Balkans and the United States (including Puerto Rico and Hawaii) where he has performed duties as both prosecutor and defence counsel, sat as a trial judge (alone and with a full court), and provided a wide range of legal advice, services, training and counsel in personnel, administrative, criminal, disciplinary, international and operational legal matters at the strategic, operational/theatre and tactical levels.
A non-practicing member of his Law Society in retirement, he served a term on the Friends of the Canadian War Museum Board of Directors, was a member of several Committees, a volunteer interpreter, and a long-time volunteer in the Military History Research Center and Library at the Canadian War Museum. He was a de facto co-chair of the “JAG Alumni” (retired legal officers across Canada), a member of the Orleans Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion and Orleans United Church.
Family and friends are invited to Beechwood, Funeral, Cemetery, and Cremation Services (280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa, ON) for a Visitation on Saturday, July 6, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. followed by a Celebration of Life in Beechwood’s Sacred Space at 10:00 a.m. with Interment to be held in the National Military Cemetery located at Beechwood Cemetery with Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Friends of the Canadian War Museum, Perley Health Center, or a charity of your choice would appreciate. Messages of condolence may be left at www.beechwoodottawa.ca
Digital Guestbook
Bev & Brian King
Bert Herfst
Karen, you have our sincere condolences. I will certainly recall with fondness and respect Bill's influence on my development as a Legal Officer. He was so much more than a mentor to me; I benefited from his warmth and good humour. He was a true friend. I shall miss him.
Sincerely, Bert and Anne Herfst
David "Sandy" Fairbanks
We have lost a very good man. My thoughts are with his family.
Robert Hyslop
I was saddened to learn of Bill’s death. My condolences to his family.
Robert Hyslop
I was saddened to learn of Bill’s death. My condolences to his family.
Jim Rycroft
I fondly remember Bill’s gentle guidance which was of great help during my time in the JAG Branch. Later we continued to stay in touch though our JAG Alumni dealings. It was always a pleasure to reminisce about times past. I shall miss him greatly. Sincere condolences to Karen and family.
Pucci Family
Our thoughts are with his family.
Rob and Kathy Barnes
Our condolences to Karen and family. I have many fond memories of Bill from the endless drug trials on the west coast and prairies to living on the economy in Schuttern. Farewell old trout.
Bob Garagn
RIP Bill. Many fond memories. Condolences and prayers to family.
Bruce Mayo
I first met Bill in Lahr in the 70’s when I was a member of the Military Police. Later, I knew him as a Legal Officer. His knowledge and judgment will be missed, as will his consideration for others. He was very good at conveying the appropriate message, especially during tough times. All condolences to his family.
Bill, you will always be remembered. You had a good influence on my life throughout the school years. You were the best man at our wedding and regardless of where we were, if you were traveling near, you made a point of contacting us. You will be missed by us and the many people you touched over your life. RIP my friend.