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WILLIAM (BILL) JAMES MACDIARMID
Born: Jun 02, 1947
Date of Passing: Feb 06, 2023
Offer Condolences or Memory Make a donation to Winnipeg Humane Society
WILLIAM (BILL) JAMES MACDIARMID
June 2, 1947 – February 6, 2023
It is with profound sadness that we announce Bill MacDiarmid's passing, peacefully with family by his side, on Monday, February 6, 2023.
Bill is survived by wife Ruth Allen; daughters, Dana Maindonald (Daniel) and Lauren MacDiarmid, whom he raised with their mother Linda MacDiarmid; and beloved grandchildren, Archie, Clara, and Parker. He will be remembered and deeply missed by family and friends.
Born June 2, 1947, the first of five children to Bill and Wynn MacDiarmid, Bill grew up in Woodhaven, a small and cozy neighbourhood where help was just a knock away if needed. Siblings Don, Anne, Jean and Archie joined the family in the years that followed.
Bill joined the Winnipeg Police Service in 1969. He served in several Divisions, attained the rank of Sergeant, and made many lifelong friends. After retiring in 1996, Bill headed west to British Columbia for a much-anticipated life of leisure and instead, secured himself a second career in security and gaming compliance with BC Lotteries.
The pull of family was stronger than Bill's dislike of snow and he returned to Winnipeg in 2006.
Bill was generous with his time and skills and volunteered with Winnipeg Humane Society as a kitten foster parent, the University of Winnipeg as a Language Partner, Hospice and Palliative Care Manitoba, Grace Hospice, and Ronald McDonald House Manitoba.
A character with a quick, dry wit, Bill always had a one liner at the ready and could tell a story like no one else.
Bill treasured time with loved ones especially at the family cabin at Star Lake, an island haven where countless projects were planned and executed, crosswords completed and sunrise coffees consumed.
Bill was eternally curious about the world around him and travelled extensively with Ruth to destinations including Germany, Israel and Spain and was delighted to escape Winnipeg winters with her to Arizona and Victoria.
For the care they provided to him in his time of need, Bill's family extends gratitude to the staff at Health Sciences Centre GD6 and the MICU.
A celebration of Bill's life will be held Saturday, March 4, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. at 603 Wellington Crescent at Academy Road (Unitarian Church).
In lieu of flowers, consider making a donation to Ronald McDonald House Charities Manitoba or the Winnipeg Humane Society, two charities close to Bill's heart.
Bill's family kindly requests that you take a few minutes to visit his tribute page at EthicalDeathCare.com. A photo-biography, as well as memories and stories published by those who knew him, are available there.
ETHICAL DEATH CARE
Simple Cremation & Life Celebrations
204-421-5501 – EthicalDeathCare.com
Publish Date: Feb 18, 2023
WILLIAM (BILL) JAMES MACDIARMID
After a brief illness, Bill MacDiarmid passed away peacefully with family by his side on Monday, February 6, 2023.
Longer obituary to follow.
Publish Date: Feb 11, 2023 Make a donation to
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 11, 2023, Feb 18, 2023
Condolences & Memories (2 entries)
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My good friend Bill I first met Bill in 1998, in Kamloops, when we were hired by The BC Lottery Corporation. Our backgrounds were very similar and it became the start of a lifelong friendship. To say that he had a dry sense of humour would be an understatement. He was also very easy to annoy…..chewing gum, tapping your fingers on the desk, clicking a pen incessantly…..assure to elicit a quick rebuke to cease, and this wasn’t a request. Bill had a knack of telling a story, and when questioned as to his involvement would give you a look, then pretend to examine his fingernails, leaving no misunderstanding as to the answer. He was always there through the rough times and shared in the happy times. Always ready to provide a helping hand. I was forever grateful for his support during the time my own mother was in hospital in Vancouver. He really liked my mother, but I suspect it was because she fed him so well. Still, his compassion knew no limits. Bill had an incredible memory for sport statistics, especially hockey. He followed Junior hockey passionately, as well as the NHL. He was especially happy when the Jets returned to Winnipeg. Bill ignited the travel bug when he suggested a trip to Vegas, we arrived on Super Bowl Sunday. For 4 days I don’t believe I have ever walked so much as that trip and no gambling took place, just sightseeing. Anytime we were together, an extended hike was always on the menu, and given the weather, maybe a round of golf. Bill was very determined to remain in good physical condition. He was often at my cabin on Savary Island and I was often able to spend a weekend at the family cabin at Star Lake. Good times, good food and a very good friend. I will miss him very much. Our very sincerest condolences to Ruth Allen, his daughters Dana and Lauren, grandchildren and the extended MacDiarmid family. John Ramsay and Patricia Bennett - Posted by: John Ramsay (Friend) on: Feb 21, 2023
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My condolences to you and your family Don and Lois. - Posted by: Pat hancock (Friend) on: Feb 21, 2023
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