Tribute

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Bill Byers announce his passing on May 3, 2017 at the age of 84 with his wife and family by his side.  He was born January 7, 1933 in Edmonton and raised on a farm in Beaverlodge, Alberta with his parents, Melville and Florence and his older sister, Gretta.  It was these formative years where he recognized the value of hard work, a strong work ethic, and the importance of self-reliance.  He attended the Vernon Army Cadet Camp in the inaugural year in the summer of 1949 and the following summer.  Throughout his life, he lived in Beaverlodge, Edmonton, Calgary, Richmond, Sorrento, Vernon and eventually Osoyoos.

After receiving his journeyman ticket as an electrician, and Electrical Engineering Technology Certification, he began his career as an Electrical Supervisor. His professional success included major projects such as the 1978 Commonwealth Games, Canada Place and Pan Pacific Hotel for Expo 86, AGT Tower, University of Alberta Hospital, Northgate Mall, Chinook Mall, and the Woodward’s stores in Western Canada.  His partnership at Allsopp, Morgan Engineering Ltd in Edmonton led to ownership of AME Engineering Ltd in Vancouver and an eventual ownership of a Living Lighting franchise in Richmond before his retirement.  His integrity, reputation and work ethic was highly respected among both his peers and clients.

Bill loved the outdoors and in earlier years enjoyed fishing with relatives, and hunting with friends.  Camping was a big part of his life in early years with family, and later with his wife, Sharon. They travelled in many different types of RV’s through many different places in Canada and as a snowbird in the US well into his later years.  His love for camping led him to invent the hard top tent trailer in the late 1950’s.  He was proud of this accomplishment, and although he regretted not getting a patent for it, he would smile whenever he saw one, as it would bring back a lot of memories.  He built a cabin at the lake which created many wonderful memories for all those who had the opportunity to enjoy it.  Bill was a jack-of-all trades and spent many hours in his workshop using talents in the building of his own homes and many other projects, where he paid much attention to detail.  Many of these traits have been passed on to his children who recognize and respect that he was a hard worker.

Golf was a big enjoyment in Bill’s life, and was a member of the Vernon Golf and Country Club. He was an avid hockey and football fan, and enjoyed his occasional drink of Crown Royal amongst family and friends.  Bill loved to spend time figuring out how things work and had an insatiable need to try to improve or “fix” it.  He spent time volunteering in several community programs including, but not limited to coaching minor hockey, the Richmond Minor Football Association, and in various local golf leagues.

Above all else, Bill’s family was the most important part of his life.  He is survived by the love of his life, and best friend, his wife Sharon.  Also survived by 7 devoted children, Ron, Linda (Fred), Randy (Susan), David, Andrew (Chris), Matthew (Tannis), and Pam (Jeremy).  He was loved by 15 grandchildren. Left also to mourn his loss is sister Gretta (Bill), 2 nieces, and many relatives and friends.  Last but not least, the other love of his life, his precious dog Misty.  She will miss him and their many walks and cuddles.

At Bill’s request, there will be no service.  Cremation has taken place and a private family gathering will be held later in the summer at Bill’s final resting place in the Crossfield Cemetery in Alberta.  Donations in memory of Bill may be made to the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation, the Alzheimer’s Association, or the charity of one’s choice.

Gone but never forgotten.

Condolences and tributes may be directed to the family by visiting www.nunes-pottinger.com

Arrangements entrusted to Nunes-Pottinger Funeral Service & Crematorium, Oliver & Osoyoos, BC.