August 31, 1917 – July 7, 2012
We are sad to announce the passing of “Barometer Bill”. Bill was born and grew up in Vancouver. He is survived by his wife, Etta, of 70 years and his sons Rick (Aileen) and Harvey (Dee) and his grandson Christopher (Stacey) and granddaughters Shannon, Darcy, Corinna and Victoria plus several great grandchildren, nieces Joanne, Barbara, Dian & nephew Robert. Bill was predeceased by his brothers, Jack & Morley and his dear grandson, Ryan in 2010.
Bill loved radio broadcasting and worked in it all his life. He started out at CKOV in Kelowna in 1941 but soon came to CKWX in Vancouver and then to CKNW in 1944 as their first Program Director when Bill Rea opened that station. Bill later moved to Seattle where he worked at KIRO and KOMO for 10 years in the 1950’s, returning to CKNW and finally with Joe Chesney at CJJC in Langley until he retired in 1982. Bill enjoyed putting on his old “78” record program on Sunday evenings. He and Etta retired to Qualicum Beach in 1984 where they enjoyed life for another 28 years.
There will be no service by Bill’s request, but there will be a gathering of family and friends in the fall to celebrate his life.
Many thanks to Dr. Biglow for all his care over the years and to all the nurses and staff at “The Gardens in Qualicum Beach” and Dr. Fletcher for their wonderful care.