WILLIAM (BILL) ALEXANDER REID

Condolences & Memories (8 entries)

• Eleanor and Family, We are saddened to hear of Bill’s passing. We were neighbors in Rancho Mirage, CA for many years. Bill was the President of our HOA and did a magnificent job under very strenuous conditions. Bill was a true friend and we had many wonderful discussions. He was always there for advice. Over the years I think we met all of the family, a family that has to be very proud. Bill will be sorely missed! RICHARD AND SUSAN PROMAN - Posted by: Richard & Susan Proman (Neighbors ) on: Oct 12, 2023

• Dad it’s hard for me to say goodbye, I will miss the twinkle in your eyes, And your infectious smile. I was always proud to call you dad, the best father a daughter could have. With a breaking heart I held you, And saw you slip away. An empty heart, and empty chair, You are no longer there. The times we laughed and the times we cried, and memories now inside my mind and through letting you go is so very sad. I never will forget you dad. ———————//———————— Dad you held my hand when I was small You caught me when I would fell, The hero of my childhood. Every time I think of you my heart fills with pride, And though I’ll always miss you, Dad, I know you are by my side. I laughter and in sorrow In sunshine and in rain, I know you’re watching over me Until we meet again. Love you always your daughter Maryanne - Posted by: Maryanne Alderman (Daughter ) on: Oct 09, 2023

• I had the pleasure of meeting Bill 12 years ago. I became very close with his daughter, Maryanne and her 3 children. I had the pleasure of joining them on their vacations to see Grandma and Grandpa Reid. Over those 12 years. I was able to see the amazing human that Bill was. He was an incredibly smart. However, what I will remember most was his love for his family. His marriage to Eleanor is one for the books as they always stood by each other and banded together through hard times where others would be torn apart. He was always there for his children who loved him dearly. Bill will always be Maryanne’s hero! Bill always had a spark about him. His smile was infectious! He never let life slow him down in retirement being able to hear about his hobbies. His wood working and the memory boxes he made. I will hold on to those memories! You will be terribly missed! - Posted by: Wendy Roberts (Friend) on: Oct 07, 2023

• Bill was a long time friend, and what a terrific friend he was: always happy to see or to hear from you, interested and interesting, involved in many things (particularly family), and possessing a great sense of humour. What is truly remarkable is that despite being burdened with serious illness for several years, Bill never seemed to lose his zest for life or his youthful spirit. Bill and Eleanor were a wonderful couple and we are so appreciative that Dominion Bridge brought us together many years ago. Bill & Deanne McDonald - Posted by: Deanne & Bill McDonald (Friend) on: Oct 03, 2023

• Rest in Peace - Bill was born in Winnipeg, growing up on Mandeville St. in St. James, the same street on which his father and grandparents did before him, yet he saw the world, travelling to many international countries. He attended Linwood Elementary and St. James Collegiate before continuing his formal education at the University of Manitoba (Civil Engineer) and then on to the University of Western Ontario, (MBA) in London ON. From an early age it was evident that Bill was a natural born leader and he excelled at everything he set his mind to. His work ethic, moral standards and ability to relate to people of all ages began when working at the family grocery store, driving a car and delivering groceries at age 11. At U of M he was recruited into the Fraternity and was elected President of the Engineering Student Council. These experiences served him well in his successful career as a corporate president and for many years in retirement as the President of Rancho Mirage HOA, CA He was the best brother anyone could hope to have. - Posted by: Gordon Reid (Brother) on: Oct 03, 2023

• Growing up with Bill, our older brother, was a most memorable and precious time in a home where we were blessed with wonderful parents, Bill and Margaret. Those were happy and wholesome days. Oh, the wonderful times we had around the house, playing in the park, on occasional vacations and working with Dad at “the store”. Both of us always looked up to Bill since he was a little older than us and he set such a good example for us to follow. When we were at the age where it was time for us to select a career path, Bill was there with advice and counsel. And then, as children do, the three of us went out into the world going our separate ways. We did, however, stay in touch over the years with visits to Winnipeg, the cottage in Kenora and Palm Springs. Also, thanks to technology, especially in later years, we were able to keep in contact by emails, phone and Facetime which made our valued conversations more personal and meaningful. Bill had the tremendous good fortune to meet and then marry Eleanor Seeley in 1961 as a lifelong partner. They were so complementary and happy together for 62 years, enjoying their time and always supporting each other. Back problems were always an issue with Bill but his condition worsened in later years, limiting his mobility with worsening pain, however, even with these issues he was always without complaint and he kept his spirits high. A hallmark in remembering Bill will be his fostering of good family values, honesty, integrity and strength of character. Brother Bill, you will always be in our hearts and thoughts. John and Reta Beaconsfield, Quebec Gordon and Mary Houston, Texas - Posted by: John and Gordon REID (Brothers) on: Oct 01, 2023

• My husband, Gordon, and I met Bill and Eleanor in Regina in the early 1970’s. We were with them during the most difficult time of their lives as they experienced the tragic death of their beloved son, Billy. We grew very close as families and eventually became the Godparents of Maryanne a few years later. Bill was a tower of strength throughout and always a kind, compassionate and caring friend. My most heartfelt condolences go out to Eleanor, Maryanne, Michael, Scott and the grandchildren. The loss of your husband, father and grandfather will leave a huge void in your lives but I know he will always be with you in spirit. With much love, Dea Wallace - Posted by: Dea Wallace (Friend) on: Oct 01, 2023

• We discovered our lasting friendship as little kids on Belvidere St, inseparable in those early years. I have fond memories of our little adventures that I will always cherish. Although we lost touch during our working careers; I enjoyed our reconnections from time to time. One memorable moment was hearing my name called out as I entered the pro shop in a Palm Springs golf course to see you standing behind the counter and was happy to hear your story of calling Rancho Mirage your retirement home. You are now free of the horrible pain you endured in your later years and I will always remember you old friend. - Posted by: Ron Chatfield (Childhood friend) on: Sep 30, 2023