Loving husband of the late Frances Wray Bawden (née Fisher), father 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
H-5276 J. R. Digger MacDougall
Annick Lapointe
Deeply sorry for your loss Jennifer. Please accept my sincere condolences. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family in these difficult times. Your father sure had an incredible life.
Linda Colwell
Bill was an engaging story teller, a man of compassion and a proud Logistician. His friendship and his professional and volunteer contributions live on.
Manon van der Horden
An officer and a gentleman. We were together in NATO, both him and Fran, so many fond memories. I was thrilled when I started at Commissionaires Ottawa to see that Bill was on the Council of Governors. A special couple who are once again reunited, may they both RIP.
Bob & Joanne Fischer
Our paths crossed several times in the course of our military careers and each time our friendship grew stronger. Starting in Soest, Germany, when Bill was the proud owner of a 1965 Ford Mustang (he loved his cars!). Our sincere condolences to Lesley, Jenny, Merril and their entire family.
Mervyn Finch MBE
Sir, you have reached your final RV. Time to take a well earned rest after your navigation through life. Join your darling wife and enjoy Valhalla. Rest in eternal peace Colonel Bill.
Al and Joyce Ricketts
Bill...what a delightful person, deservedly loved and respected. We knew him most from Brussels when we often were in his and Fran's warm company. What a great couple. Some of his humorous anecdotes are still being retold by us. His wonderful daughters befriended us as well, which we loved. We are with them in their grief. Bill will live on in our hearts and memories.
Judy Chan
Jen, my deepest condolences on the passing of your Dad. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Doug Sinclair
Bill was a classmate at RMC, a fine officer and a good friend. He will be sorely missed.
Judy Chan
Jen, my deepest condolences on the passing of your Dad. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
We are saddened to learn of the passing of Bill Bawden. I always enjoyed his company at our Alumni luncheons. He will be missed. On behalf of the Ottawa Branch of the RMC Alumni Association I send condolences to Lesley, Jenny and Merril and families. May he rest in peace.