Loving husband of the late Frances Wray Bawden (née Fisher), mother of Lesley (Murray), Jenny (Piotr) and Merril. Proud grandfather of Cameron, Graham, Allyson and Meghan. Dear brother to Mary (James) and brother-in-law to Garry (Margaret) and Jacqueline (Philip).
After a life filled with adventure and romance, Fran and Bill are together again. Bill’s quick wit, combined with Fran’s infectious laugh, could light up any room. Living in six countries and travelling the world, they made treasured friends across the globe. Ultimately, they settled near Ottawa to be close to their children and cherished grandchildren. Whether watching dance recitals or hockey games, teaching skiing or boating, travelling or quietly sitting together, Bill enjoyed any activity that involved his family.
Bill was born in Toronto, Ontario on 14 October 1940. As the son of a soldier, Bill moved frequently, attending schools in Ontario, Saskatchewan, Quebec and Manitoba before enrolling in the Canadian Army himself. He graduated from the Royal Military College of Canada in 1963 and earned a Master's degree in Business Administration from Michigan State University.
Bill was an officer in the Royal Canadian Ordnance Corps. He was very proud to serve in the Canadian military for over 35 years.
His nomadic upbringing, marked by moves every 2 or 3 years, continued his entire professional life. He lived in Germany, the United States, Italy, Belgium and Austria, as well as Valcartier, St-Jean, Borden, Ottawa and eventually Ashton.
Bill continued his life of service after retirement, primarily dedicating his time to volunteering, including as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Corps of Commissionaires and with the Ottawa Advisory Board of the Salvation Army.
Bill was also the ultimate care giver, looking after Fran for many years at the end of her life. In recent years, he was the recipient of exceptional care from the incredible team at Carleton Lodge.
Bill will be missed beyond measure.
Family and friends are invited to a memorial service on Thursday, August 22 at Beechwood Cemetery (280 Beechwood Ave. Ottawa, ON) at 10am followed by the burial and refreshments.
Donations to the Salvation Army in lieu of flowers would be appreciated.
Digital Guestbook
Lynn and Tony Palmer
Angela Palumbo
So sorry, Mary and Jim , for your loss. Sounds like your brother lived a good life of service and kindness. I am sure he will be greatly missed.
Fredrick LAFORGE
A great friend sadly missed
John Adams
A great soldier and a wonderful man!
John MacInnis
A long time friend sorely missed
Frank Jewsbury
Many great memories from first year RMC in the Stone Frigate.
Col (Ret'd) Fred Carpenter
A military college classmate whom I admired as a dedicated officer, devoted husband, father and grandfather.
Jim Gervais
A wonderful human being and a good logistician
Good memories of time together with the Commisionnaires
Ron Poirier
Always ready to help, physically and emotionaly. What a good friend to have. Miss you
Jack & Dianne Arseneault
We served with Bill & Fran in three postings. He was a wonderful man to work for and with. Our sincere condolences to all of Bill’s family. May he Rest in Peace.
Sincere sympathy two precious people in our world together again