The day after his 85th birthday, Bill Chamberlain passed away peacefully at Hospice Wellington in Guelph, Ontario. His beloved wife of 60 years, Frances (nee Cairns), was by his side. Bill will be missed everyday by their four children Catharine (Blazenko Dzoja) of Mississauga, Grant of Kelowna, BC, and Guelph residents Craig (Joanna Llorin), and David (Monica Sabata). He was a champion of and mentor to his much-loved grandchildren Dean and Daniela Dzoja, William and Gordon Chamberlain, and Claire Chamberlain. He is also mourned by cherished step grandsons, Devon and Brendan Barber, whose lives he loved being part of while they were growing up. Bill will be remembered by his only sibling, Melville (Shirley) Chamberlain of Markdale, and members of the Cairns, Chamberlain, and Patterson families who were very dear to him. Bill had a passion for tradition; with his immediate and extended family, he kept the Chamberlain Picnic alive in Otonabee Township to mark its 100th event this year. He took immense pleasure in working outside on farm projects and seeing family enjoy the land that his great grandparents settled in 1847. He also thrived in the company of Pepper (of a long line of Shelties who joined the family), and cat, Mr. JD Stray. Bill was born and raised in Peterborough County. He graduated with diplomas in agriculture (1956) and farm engineering (1957) from Kemptville Agricultural School where classmates became lifelong friends. He joined the Ontario Co-operative system in 1960, and worked with agricultural co-operatives in Harriston, Flesherton, Ilderton, Ailsa Craig, Guelph and on Manitoulin Island as well as many other locations. He retired as general manager of North Wellington Co-operative Services 17 years ago. Bill and Fran made many special friendships during those Co-op years. Bill’s family thanks the many heroes in healthcare who looked after him during the 17 years he lived with cancer, including teams at the Juravinski Cancer Centre, Guelph General Hospital and St. Joseph’s Health Centre Guelph. The family also sends heartfelt appreciation to Hospice Wellington in Guelph for the volunteers’ and staff members’ compassion during Bill’s last 80 hours. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation or the Juravinski Cancer Centre (through Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation) to help find a cure for cancer for future generations. Arrangements entrusted to Wall-Custance Funeral Home & Chapel.
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