WILLIAM REGINALD POOLE

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

WILLIAM REGINALD POOLE 1941 - 2001 Peacefully at home, surrounded by family and the loving support of many, Bill Poole passed away on December 11, 2001. Left to miss his many gifts are his wife Marilyn; his children, Brad (Barb), Laurel (Dave) and David; his mother Evelyn; sister Lois (David) sister-in-law Judy; nieces and nephews, Allison (David), Ross, Airdrie, Ashleigh and Erin; as well as many extended family members and dear friends. He was predeceased by his father Stewart, brother Ross, and first wife Roberta. Bill was born in Deloraine, MB, and grew up on the family farm near Goodlands. His love for the land began in his childhood and became the focus of his career. After graduating with a degree in Agriculture from the University of Manitoba he served as an agricultural representative in both Killarney and Swan River and wrote for an agricultural publication, The Westminster, in Regina. In 1968 he returned to farm the family land and added the role of manager of the Turtle Mountain Conservation District in 1977. While Bill was manager of the TMCD, he became interested in Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) programs. In 1989 he was invited to join DUC as their Provincial Agrologist. In this role, he implemented the agricultural component of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan in Manitoba. He became involved with many soil and water conservation and wildlife-friendly farming initiatives, such as Winter Cereals, Forage Programs & Zero Till Force groups. His job grew to encompass national issues involving land use policies and DUC vision; developing mission statements and participating in Task Force groups. Bill was the editor of two native plant revegetation manuals, which have gained international recognition. He was heavily involved with the formation of the new DUC subsidiary, Native Plant Solutions, and as Bill would say, "The rest is history." The apex of Bills commitment to the soil and water ethic was reached when he became president of the Soil Conservation Council (SCC) of Canada. DUC graciously provided time for him to be available to undertake this significant role. Bill served on the executive SCC for seven years, the last three of those as president. He worked very hard during that time to help the SCC gain national recognition. In addition, Bill served on the Board of Directors of the Red River Co-op. Bill gave generously of his gifts: his intelligence, integrity and sense of humour. He was enormously proud of the accomplishments of his family and supported them in every endeavour. He was steadfast in his dedication, love, and strength. Bill believed you should love what you do and do what you love and encouraged his family to do the same. A memorial service to celebrate Bills life will be held on Saturday, December 15 at 1:00 p.m. at Silver Heights United Church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Native Plant Solutions in care of Ducks Unlimited. THOMSON FUNERAL CHAPELS 783-7211

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 15, 2001