OBITUARY
William James Needham
6 May, 1951 – 2 April, 2021
With deep sorrow, sadness and never-ending love, his family announces the passing of William (Bill) James Needham at 69 years old on April 2, 2021.
Soul mate, best friend and love of his life Linda Needham (Siwak) for over 50 years, Bill and Linda were to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on May 1. Proud, caring and adored father of Kerri Bouwman (nee Needham) and Jeff Needham. Forever looked up to and remembered by son-in-law Gerry Bouwman and daughter-in-law Lisa Lukkarinen. Cherished for eternity by grandchildren Brianne, Katie, Ryan, Riley and Will. Loving brother of JoAnne Rau (Mark Rau) and Debbie Benincasa (Sam Benincasa) and brother-in-law to Joanne Jackson (Murray Jackson). Predeceased by his brother Tom Needham (survived by Stella Needham) and parents Evelyn and Vance Needham and in-laws Jenny and Joseph Siwak. Bill will be remembered fondly by cousins, nieces/nephews, friends, former co-workers and all who knew him.
Born in Hamilton, Bill spent his childhood mischievously with his brother finding all sorts of ways to test the resolve of his sisters and parents. Meeting Linda in high school was the start of a life-long journey of shared laughter, love, challenges met and overcome and building of a family that would become Bill and Linda’s pride and joy. Bill worked his way through the electrical profession to the position of electrical inspector and was greatly respected by anyone who was fortunate enough to work alongside him.
Over the years, Bill loved his time with family fishing, snowmobiling, playing cards and just being together. While an electrician by trade, Bill was a master do-it-all wizard. If Bill couldn’t fix it, he would just try again until he found a way. And he used this mastery of all trades to help anyone in need. One of Bill’s proudest achievements was the castle that he and Linda built for the family on Salmon Lake, which, over a period of 20 years, created life-long memories.
Described by his grandchildren as determined, hard working, problem solving, caring, brilliant, patient, passionate, loveable, funny and goofy – Papa will be the sparkle in their eyes for the rest of their lives. Bill was so proud that his name will live on in his 1-year old grandchild, his pride and joy – little Will Needham.
Bill will always be remembered as Kerri’s hero, Jeff’s best friend and Linda’s everything – rest in peace Papa!
In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill’s memory can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society (www.cancer.ca) or the Heart and Stroke Foundation (https://www.heartandstroke.ca/). With regret, due to Covid restrictions, there will be a service for immediate family only.
Services
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Memorial Service
Saturday, 10 April , 2021
Memories
William James Needham
have a memory or condolence to add?
ADD A MEMORYJame Grabham
16 April 2021
Linda and family...Monica and I want to express our deepest condolences to you and your family...Monica remembers you at parties down in Florida and I remember Billy at several golfing events together... Bill and I golfed together several times, and once up at your cottage, his hospitality was unmatched and unforgettable. Bill was a "true gentleman and friend" to me. I will always remember his smile and laugh...I will miss that...I will also miss Bill's "bark"... much love, Linda.
Bill & Cathy Esplen
16 April 2021
Linda & family- so sad to hear this. We have many good memories of Bill when you lived up the street from us in Whitby & we worked together in the North Metro office
We have you in our thoughts and prayers as you go through this sad time- Bill & Cathy Esplen
Bonnie Strus
14 April 2021
Linda, Kerri and Jeff,
Bill left you too soon. Bill & Linda always welcomed me into their home. He fixed the electrical work in my parents homes many times. Bill was always joyful, caring and talented.
My deepest condolences to each of you and your families. May Bill live on in your families and in spirit forever.
Love, your cousin Bonnie
HELENE and Larr Lukkarinen
9 April 2021
The Needham family came into our lives 8 years ago. We were welcomed so quickly and totally that its hard to realize that it hasn’t
been longer. We loved talking American politics with him and no matter how clever we thought our musings about the situation were, Bills were better. When Bill laughed you were along for the ride. The chances of running into him without a tool in his hand or a project in his sights were slim. He always had a grin on his lips and the gleam in his eye told you that you were seconds away from laughing.
We will miss him and we send prayers that God sends comfort and healing to your family. Godspeed Bill.
Helene and Larry and children
Jake & Lisa Thompson
8 April 2021
To the entire Needham family. Our deepest, deepest condolences on the passing of Bill. We have so many memories from Salmon Lake that will stay will us forever. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Jake & Lisa
George & Josie Marlin
7 April 2021
Dear Linda, Kerri, Jeff and families. Our deepest condolences. We know that were not neighbours for a long time but we have great memories. We needed light fixtures for the outside of our house and Bill was right over installing them for us. He was a very kind and generous man.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
George & Josie Marlin
Burrwood Drive Neighbours
Lynn Duce
7 April 2021
What a wonderful, hard working, happy guy and a cool little kid. Childhood memories are coming back. I remember little Billy, my brother Gary Magwood and Phillip Morgan playing together. I believe they called each other “Doddy”. We grew up in a fun neighbourhood with great friends and parents. I babysat Jo Ann and later worked with her and played bridge against Mark.
When I bought my condo, Dennis Fox suggested that I ask Bill about getting the electrical work done. He actually did the work himself even though he was now an inspector. I believe he was on holiday too. He was here for 2 weeks. How lucky and grateful am I.
My sincere condolences to all his family. He will be truly missed.
Diane Lewis
7 April 2021
Dear Linda, Jeff and Kerri and families: My heartfelt condolences on the loss of Bill. My memories of Bill are of an extremely intelligent and funny person, and a pleasure to be around. My dad, Frank, thought the world of Bill, especially since Bill was so much like him - a get-it-done kind of fellow. I am sending my prayers for your healing and virtual hugs to you all. Godspeed, Bill.
Anna Domanico
7 April 2021
Heartbroken beyond words to hear of Bill's passing. Thinking of all of you during this very difficult time. Bill was such a caring and friendly person who always greeted me with such a warm smile. He will be deeply missed. It was such a pleasure to have taken care of Bill for so many years as his hygienist and I always looked forward to seeing him. We always had nice chats.
To Linda and the entire Needham family I hope that the all the wonderful memories of all the great times you have had with Bill will help ease your pain.
With heartfelt sympathy. Rest In Peace Bill
Annette D’Armiento
7 April 2021
Dear Kerri and the Bouwman Family, Please accept our most sincere and deepest condolences. We are sadden to hear of your dear fathers passing. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Electrical Safety Authority
6 April 2021
Those of us at the Electrical Safety Authority are saddened to hear of Bill's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. A donation to the Canadian Cancer Society has been made in Bill’s memory.
MO Nardi
6 April 2021
Dear Needham Family
The passing of Bill is indeed very sad news.
I have known Bill since I started my electrical career.
I have been in contact with Bill on and off since his retirement
He was a very a talented man.
What I respected most about Bill Needham was his common sense.
It is because of him that I work for ESA.
Rest in peace my friend.
Mo Nardi
Mike Szabo
5 April 2021
Linda and Family, our sincerest sympathy on Bills Passing. I have many enjoyable memories with Bill and your family over the years from work, golf and play. He looks happiest when enjoying his family and I am sure his memory will carry on through their fond memories.
With Heartfelt Sympathy
Szabo Family
Marilyn Belliveau
5 April 2021
I had the greatest pleasure of meeting Bill and Linda through my wonderful friend Jenny Siwak. We met in Florida and had many wonderful times together. I remember Bill as being a very caring and concerned person for others. He always went out of his way to lend a helping hand whenever he could, and I am sure many others would share my thoughts. I know that he will definitely be on watch for his family, and with his electrical skills will keep God's night light on so others can find their way home in order to meet again. So when you look at the moon, remember Bill. My most heartfelt sympathy to you Linda and your remarkable family to which Bill was most proud. Lyn Belliveau.
Brian Smee
5 April 2021
Our sincere sympathy for your loss. Bill was always there to help you, give you advice and very smart at whatever he did. We are remembering all the good times with him - golfing, parties and just hanging out. He will always be fondly remembered. 💕
Katie Bouwman
5 April 2021
Papa, you were always the life of the party, there was never a day where you couldn't make anyone laugh. I have always looked up to you for your determination, perseverance, and work ethic and there will never be a day when you don't cross my mind. I know you will always be watching over me, I love you forever and always.
Debbie Napholc
5 April 2021
Bill has left us way too soon. Bill was always special to me and I will treasure the years I worked with him at ESA. He was smart, quick thinking, caring and always laughing or telling a story to make us laugh. He truly cared about our customers and the people he worked with and mentored many new Inspectors over the years. I will remember Bill as a friend and one of sweetest people I had the pleasure to know. To Linda and family, no words can really express the loss that I know you are feeling. I do know that you are not alone and can always count on your friends and neighbours to be there to help. May Bill Rest In Peace.
Deb and Cam Napholc
James Wright
5 April 2021
Linda and family, my sincerest condolences. Bill was a great man who always made everyone feel welcome. When my boys Mitch and Josh were young they always called him Hydro Billy. Although I have not seen Bill in a few years I always ask common friends how he was doing.
My thoughts are with the family
James Wright
Charlie Bouwman
5 April 2021
Bill always had time for everyone.Your bright light will shine forever and be part of the next place that you go.We shall miss you.Charlie & Tina.
Bri Bouwman
4 April 2021
Papa, I am so grateful for all the memories I got to share with you and I will love you eternally. You were always joking even the hardest times and that is what I will remember most about you. I know you are looking down on me and I have gained another guardian angel. Rest in peace my handsome Papa. I love you.