William P. DeGuerre, Bill passed away peacefully at Southlake Regional Health Centre in Newmarket, Ontario on February 10th, 2024 after a sudden turn with his battle against cancer. His family was by his side. Bill was 82 years old and is survived by Marlene, his life partner of 40 years, children John (Tara), Carrie (Darren) and Scott (Tracy). Grandpa will be greatly missed by his grandchildren Harrison, Georgia, Marin, Aidan and Hunter. He is also survived by his loving sisters, Jane, Pat, nephew Ian, and predeceased by his sister Judy (Doug) and his parents, Aubrey and Willa.

Bill was born November 20, 1941 in Beaverton Ontario, and in 1956 moved to Markham Ontario where he attended Markham District High School. In 1965 he wed Carol Hawke, started a family and began a long career with London Life Insurance after which time he began his “Freedom 55” retirement in his most treasured place - ‘Merriland’ on Maple Beach.

Bill was a caretaker by nature; a husband, older brother, father, grandfather and good neighbour. He was always willing to lend a hand and was called upon by many in times of need.

Bill was an avid golfer and snowbird, spending many winters in Florida which allowed him to maintain his signature tanned skin. He took pride in his ‘good head of hair’ and was a faithful client to Peter for over 50 years. He had a vibrant personality and his distinctive laugh echoed down the beach road alerting family and friends that he was close by.

Often referred to as ‘WillyMaid’, he kept his home, car, and property (as well as his family’s and neighbours’) spotless. Bill took pride in maintaining his properties and his community, serving as the Director of Maintenance at his condominiums and volunteered at Largo Botanical Gardens in Florida. On Maple Beach, one could follow the hum of the hedge trimmer and find Bill perched on a step stool, covered in cedar trimmings.

In his later retirement years Bill called the Edengrove community home in Beaverton. He was a member of the local curling club, and enjoyed happy hour with his neighbours. For many years, a highlight was hosting ‘Camp Edengrove’ with neighbours engaging their grandchildren in a week of crafts, swimming, pickleball and finishing off with a talent show featuring all the kids’ talents for the members to enjoy.

Bill was always on the go, maintaining his fitness into his 80’s and through his cancer treatment. In fact, his daily step count consistently out did most people half his age and he’d proudly share his achievements with his doctors and his family.

Bill was immensely proud of his grandchildren and attended as many hockey games, dance competitions, and volleyball tournaments as he could. Graduations were a priority and he wanted to be there to celebrate their accomplishments.

The family is planning a celebration of life on June 8th at the Beaverton Curling Club (164 Main St. Beaverton) from 1:00-4:00pm.

Memorial donations may be made directly to - Canadian Cancer Society, Childhood Cancer Cause

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.manganfuneralhome.com

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