William is survived by his beloved wife, Alysse (nee Adam); his three darling daughters Marney Joyce, Willa Georgina, and Bridget Rose; his loving parents, Beverley Joyce and John; and his adoring siblings John (Cristina) and their children Christopher and James, Robert (Melissa) and their daughter Jaley, and Jacqueline Penn (Sean) and their children Conner and Sophia, and treasured by father and mother-in-law, George and Betty-Lou Adam.

Born in Weston, it is questionable which he learned first – how to walk, or how to kick a soccer ball.  He kept his young parents busy as he explored his new world and his growing abilities.  With the rest of his siblings born shortly after, the ubiquitous family of six moved down to New Jersey.  He spent the remaining of his childhood and adolescence in the neighbouring towns of Sparta, Byram and Stanhope, where he frequently headlined local newspapers which quickly shone a spotlight on his natural gift of soccer.  It was here that he fostered childhood friendships that would last his entire life.  It is also where his Mom taught him his first three chords on the guitar, the instrument which would become an extension of his body, heart and soul. 

Following high school, he moved north, joining his brother (then later, both brothers) at Carleton University. He began to plant his roots in Ottawa, where he found his forever home.  It didn’t take long for him to create new friendships, soccer mates, band mates, co-workers, all whom he showered in humour, music, love and adventure.  Will made every friend know they were important; that they mattered and that they belonged. 

He then met Alysse, with whom he shared life’s greatest love.  In her, he found his purpose, his match, the answer to all that he lived for.  Alysse and their three girls were all Will ever wanted in life and are his pride and joy. Giving and receiving enrichment with Alysse’s parents and family only expanded his existing love and friendship with his cousins, aunts and uncles; all of whom delighted when Will would come to town.

Never there was a finer man.  Will lived with the absence of judgement, and in its place led his life with tolerance, patience, acceptance and love. He was a friend to the friendless.  A source of strength for those in need.  Always first to speak for someone who could not find their voice. His wit was unmatched; his laughter could fill every crevice of a room.  Will was a source of love and friendship that was so powerful, not even his tragic loss can it end.

Will’s music was part of his breath, his mind, how he lived and how he loved.  To be in his presence was to be a part of his music.  His voice and guitar touched the very heart of all who it reached. William was a conductor and the audience his orchestra; and oh the ensemble that ensued.  “If music be the food of love, play on.”- Shakespeare

Further memories and picture, video and written tributes may be found at www.basicfunerals.ca  (While a small gathering of immediate family has taken place, they recognize that his love spread far and wide, therefore additional commemorations may take place as the family processes their tragic loss.)