WILLEM (BILL) FREDERIK STOEL

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

WILLEM (BILL) FREDERIK STOEL With heavy hearts, we announce that Willem (Bill) Frederik Stoel passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 6, 2018. He is survived by his partner Esther Van Caeyzeele, son Michael Stoel, stepchildren, Julie Kines (Daryl), Donna Bos (Ken), Randy Van Caeyzeele and Dayna Van Caeyzeele (Ilana). Bill is also survived by stepgrandchildren and great-grandchildren who also had a special place in his heart, as well as numerous other relatives. Bill will be fondly remembered by his good friend of many years, Bob Hijkoop. Bill was predeceased by his beloved first wife Nien, son Brian, sister Mickey, his parents and his brother. Born May 19, 1926 in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, Bill's first years were filled with adventures and fond memories as he followed his parents to Indonesia, where his father worked for Shell Oil. In the late 1930s, Bill was sent back to Holland for schooling. He would be separated from his three siblings and parents for the entirety of the Second World War and his teenage years. Bill's parents were held in a prisoner of war camp through the war and he did not know their fate. When Holland surrendered to Germany, Bill's homeland was occupied and he and all the Dutch lived through some of the toughest times Holland and Europe ever saw. In Amsterdam, Bill was one of the lucky ones and was able to get an education. After the war, he learned that his parents had miraculously survived. As the Dutch rebuilt, he learned trades. From 1948 to 1949 at age 22, Bill was taken into the army and sent to his former home in Indonesia as rebels fought the Dutch. Bill spoke of patrolling the countryside, but kept many of his experiences during this time to himself. In 1954, Bill and his young bride Nien immigrated to Canada, landing in Winnipeg. They soon had two boys and raised their family in Transcona. Bill worked at Red River College until his retirement, and was extremely skilled at woodworking. Sadly, Nien died in 1995. Bill had a second chance at love when he was introduced to Esther Van Caeyzeele, who lost her own beloved first husband years before. For over 20 years, the two shared a love of cards, gardening, birds, dogs, and cats. Bill relocated his home to his dream cottage on Lake Winnipeg, where he would spend his time woodworking and gardening, visiting with friends, and enjoying nature. Esther's kids took Bill into their hearts and family. The last few years were difficult for Bill. He made it through with Esther's loving care, as well with the help of special angels at the WRHA home care including Menassi and George. Later, the dedicated nursing staff at Oakview Extendicare ensured that he was comfortable in his final days. We are so grateful for your care. Bill was an intelligent, loyal, caring and generous man. He will be missed.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 09, 2018