William "Bill" Frank Roberts

William F. (Bill) Roberts passed away quietly at Woodingford Lodge in Woodstock on February 24th, 2022. Born in Woodstock on May 22, 1933, to William J. and Alice Roberts, the baby Bill grew up alongside his sisters Eva and twins Kay and Alice in “The Gore” at a time when money was tight and friendships were the most valuable thing on earth. By this measure, Bill’s wealth was immeasurable. In 1949, Bill joined his only employer, Ralston Purina, retiring 43 years later. When asked why a promising and gifted student would leave high school early, his reply was typically Bill: “When you found a good job in 1949, you kept it.” In 1958, he married Jean Roberta Scott and after five years in their first home on Hay Street, they moved together only once more -- to Jean’s family home on Grace Street. Due to the cruelty of Alzheimer’s, Bill moved to Woodingford Lodge in 2019. Bill’s many volunteer activities included being a Scout leader, a term as President of the Norwich Curling Club, and serving on the Boards of the YMCA and the Woodstock and District Developmental Services. Following his retirement, he took great pleasure in golfing at Craigowan, curling in Norwich, and playing Santa Claus at the Purina Christmas parties since his hair had already turned the obligatory white. A true Boy Scout, Bill made every effort to leave his world better than he found it whether at Grace Street, in Woodstock, or at the family bush property in Restoule far away from telephones, electricity, and streetlights that hide the stars. Bill was a wonderful husband and father who shared his dry wit and knack for storytelling willingly and until only a few years ago would periodically attempt to ride a bicycle backwards, a trick he was renowned for in his youth. Left to mourn Bill’s passing is his wife Jean, sons, Scott (Janet) and Blake, and daughter Anne (Jeff) Copeland along with his grandchildren William and Nicholas Roberts and Emily and James Copeland. Bill will also be sincerely missed by his numerous cousins in and around Restoule, the boys from Durrell Lake Hunt Camp, and his numerous friends. Bill’s family would like to sincerely thank the staff at Woodingford Lodge for their kindness and compassion from the very first day of his residency. Given the times we are in, there will be no formal memorial service, but we do urge all who knew Bill to raise a glass (or two) to his memory, look at the stars and share your favourite story about him. Please also consider making a contribution to your favourite charity and to take the time to treat someone kindly.