It is with tears of sadness and with great memories, that the family of Bill Gurney announce his passing on March 20, 2011. Bill is survived by his wife Helen, son Wayne (Annette), daughter Kathy (Lee), grandchildren Brittany, Will, Alison, & Stephen. Bill also leaves to mourn his passing, his brother George (Jo Ann), Ted, Wilson, (Liz), Victor (Sharon), his sister Carol and
many other family members.
Bill was born and raised in the Comox Valley. He attended Sandwick School on Headquarters Road and Tsolum School. After leaving school, Bill worked for a short time at Kelsey Bay as a 2nd loader and then he moved back to the Valley and worked for the Comox Creamery. He and Helen were married in Courtenay in 1960 and built a home there. Shortly after their two children were born Bill began driving truck for Port McNeill Milk and the family moved to Port McNeill. Bill loved the North Island. He was an avid fisherman, enjoyed hiking, berry and mushroom picking, crabbing and exploring the many lakes, trails, and beaches in the area.
Bill was one of the founding members of Broughton Curling Club and spent many terms in office as president. He was the mainstay of the ice making crew from the opening of the rink in 1979 until last year. For his many hours of time spent volunteering he was honoured with a Life Membership in the club.
In 1984 Bill went back to school. He attended Malaspina College and received his scaling certificate. He worked as a scaler for Western Forest Products for 14 years and upon retiring he set up his own scaling company, took up golfing and did lots more fishing! He spent time taking his grandsons down to the wharf to fish and taught his grandchildren to play crib. Coffee time with his buddies each day was a must.
Bill’s friendliness, his wit, his gentle nature will be forever missed by his family and friends. In fishing terms,
he was “A Keeper”.
A Celebration of Life will be held April 2, 2011 at 2:00 P.M. at Cheslakees Elementary School followed by a reception at the Lions Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations in memoriam may be made to the
Port McNeill Hospital Auxiliary.