It is with heavy hearts, that we announce the passing of William Joseph (Bill) Taylor on Saturday, November 9th, 2019 at the age of 87, after a lengthy battle with cardiac problems.
He was the loving husband of Fran and proud father of Eileen (Terry), Joe (Leslie), Dave (Sandra), Cathy (Ted) and Mike (Brenda). He was also especially proud of all his grandchildren: Alexandra (Dave), Jenna (Adam), Erin, Christopher (Paige), Shay, Josh, Chelsea (Rosie), Kate and Ian and his great grandsons, Owen and James. He was predeceased by his brother, Robert “Bob”, and sister, Patricia “Pat”.
A genuine self-made man, Bill started out working in the CNR yards in Stratford and then eventually went on to become a provincial corrections officer. He constantly sought to improve himself and to provide better for his family, working multiple jobs and taking classes to complete a university degree. He then went onto a distinguished career in the correctional services being at various times the superintendent at the Don Jail in Toronto and Guelph’s Correctional Centre before retiring as the Vice Chairman of the Ontario Board of Parole.
He also had a remarkable career as a senior athlete competing in world-wide badminton competitions within the police games. Playing bridge on Monday’s and Wednesday’s was another favourite past time. He also acquired the “travel bug” later in life taking Fran on sometimes “surprise” cruises and trips to various world-wide destinations.
A genuine first love, however, was time spent at the family cottage on Christian Island throughout the summers watching children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren playing and growing up. Card games, scrabble, reading, baking home-made bread and desserts and watching baseball games were all favoured past times there. Family and friend get togethers were always special events filled with fun and laughter. Often a man of few words, his more mischievous and playful side was usually fully on display at the cottage. He was always very emotional talking about Fran and his children during these times and his great love and affection was clear to all.
He will be greatly missed by all his family and friends alike. The family would especially like to thank the staff at the Guelph and St. Joseph’s Hospitals, along with Dr. Hood, for the excellent care that Bill received in his final years.
A service to celebrate Bill’s life will be held at the Church of the Apostles (St. James and St. Matthias), 86 Glasgow St. N., Guelph on Friday, November 15, 2019 at 2 pm. Reception to follow in the church hall. Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 519-822-0051
Memorial contributions to the Foundation of Guelph General Hospital or Sleeping Children Around the World would be appreciated.
“May the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace.”