William James Powell

POWELL- It is with sadness that the family announces the passing of Bill Powell at Woodingford Lodge, Woodstock on Monday January 23, 2006 in his 81st year. Bill was a son of the late G.D. (Del) Powell and Charlotte (Cayley) Powell. Predeceased by his sister Jacqueline (Jackie) Gardiner (1999). Survived by his wife of 52 years Edna (Porter) Powell of Woodstock, son Rick of Spruce Grove, Alberta and four grandchildren. Also sister Margaret Trezise of Woodstock and brothers George (wife Bertha) of St. John's Newfoundland, Laurie (wife Joan) of Woodstock, and Charles (wife Dale) of Ottawa. Remembered by nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. At the outbreak of the Second World War, Bill joined the Oxford Rifles in Woodstock, then the Royal Rifles of Canada in Quebec, the Royal Canadian Navy in Halifax, and the Royal Canadian Air Force in Winnipeg. In each case he was discharged for being under age. He went to sea with the Merchant Navy, serving on Canadian and American ships carrying supplies in war zones in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. He continued to serve on merchant vessels until 1950. On his return to Southwestern Ontario, Bill worked for Veterans Affairs Canada in London. Following his retirement he returned to his hometown in Woodstock. Bill has been a member of Branch 55 of the Royal Canadian Legion for more than 60 years. He was active in a number of organizations including the Naval Association, the Historical and Genealogical Societies, and the reunion committees for Chapel School and W.C.I.. The family would like to thank the staff at Woodingford Lodge for their loving care and support. Friends may call at the R.D. Longworth Funeral Home 845 Devonshire Ave. Woodstock (539-0004) Wednesday 2-4 & 7-9 pm where the complete funeral service will be held in the chapel Thursday at 1:30 pm. Interment Forest Lawn Cemetery, London. No flowers please. At Bill's request, a fund has been established to purchase a medical lift for Woodingford Lodge. Those wishing to do so may contribute to the Bill Powell Lift Fund at Woodingford Lodge, or to a charity of their choice. Online condolences at www.longworthfuneralhome.com. A Legion Service under auspices Royal Canadian Legion Branch #55 Woodstock will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday at 6:30 pm. There was only one Bill and there will never be another.

Service Details

Thursday, January 26th, 2006 1:30pm, Longworth Funeral Home

Interment Details

Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens