I will always remember the best boss ever. When I first started working for the OBE on Gilmour St., in the 1970's, he was so welcoming. Then when the the two boards imalgimated, the Ottawa Board of Education and Ottawa Carleton District School Board, he stayed with us. The Angels are lucky to have him it's our loss. RIP Mr Bird.

It's been a year now but I know that Bill's family are still thinking of him every day, feeling warmed by the love that he had for them all.  I knew Bill from his Leaside days but only as one of my brother Dave's peers - they were "so much older than me".  I then recently met Bill along with his cherished wife Shirley and one of his wonderful grandsons when we were at the Rolph Road Public School's 75th reunion in October 2014.  It was that day that I got to know more about Bill and I was left in awe of a wonderful man.  I found myself thinking about Bill today so decided to "Google" his name and then found his tribute.  I've known no other person who has been remembered with so many genuinely loving tributes - well done Bill!  My sincere condolences to Shirley, their children, and many grandchildren.  Thank you for keeping this guest book open to honour Bill.

Just found out that Bill passed away.  He was my boss at the Sarnia & Lambton Board of Education in the late 60's and early 70's.  When I became Superintendent of Business in 1987 he sent me a letter congratulations, which I though was very thoughtful of him.  I wish I had found a way to keep in touch with him, especially after I retired in 1997.
I'm so sorry for your loss but am thankful Bill live a long fruitful life.
Sincerely,
Gerry(Gerald) Young, Sarnia, Ontario
younggn42@gmail.com

Rest in Peace Bill, Thank you for being such a gentle great soul.  Your fond memories will live forever.

Dear Shirley,
So sorry to hear of Bill's passing. May the wonderful memories you shared together, help you through this sad time. 

With our sympathy,
Don & Betty Crooks

My deepest condolence.I met Bill in 1968 when he sat on a panel to hire me at Fisher Park HS.Then in 1995 he sat on a panel to hire me as Administrative Officer OBE.I feel Bill was my mentor and very good friend.

Ross and I are saddened that we will not be able to join you and family at the visitation for Bill. Our thoughts are with you and family.

Nancy Maxwell

So sorry to hear of the death of Bill. My condolences to Shirley,to his children and  all his family. I have offered a Mass for him. He was a great and kind friend, such a gentleman, a good father and husband, and such a good friend to our family. May he rest in peace. Fr. Colin MacKinnon

My deepest condolences.I met Bill in 1968
when he was part of a panel that hired me to work at Fisher Park HS.I later worked with him for 15 year at the Board office .I always consider him as my mentor and good friend.
Bruce Riley  (OBE)

Mom, David, Stephen and family, I hope everybody will remember how happy Bill made you. 
He was a caring husband and great friend to you mom, I will always be thankful for everything he did for you. 
Glenn.

Once again, I am so very sorry for your loss..Bill was an amazing
man, husband and best friend for you my dear Shirley. I'm sure
he will be well remembered by all who knew him..Do not forget to 
look after yourself during this time as I am well aware of how easy
it will be to forget what must be one of the worst times of your life.
Please keep in touch Shirley..You are also most important to me.
I will always be at a loss for the best words but I'm pretty sure you
will know my prayers will be with you and your lovely Bill. Please extend my sympathy to his two sons for me.
Take care
Always your Sister and Friend.

Dear David, Stephan and family,
Your late parents were neighbours of mine on Larkin Drive, Barrhaven from 1979-1987. I always appreciated their thoughtfulness, kindness and the interest they took when my sons were born.    Although I had lost touch with your late parents I continue to have very fond memories of them as such good neighbours.  My condolences to Shirley and your entire family.
Frayda Raber
Yossi (Joseph) and Michael Bokhaut

Shirley and Family
I knew Bill from his many dedicated years of serving as a Director of Your Credit Union and its predecessors.
His devotion and talent to the well-being of others was always evident.
We admired his long and valiant struggle not to be overcome by the limitations nature placed on his body.
Fare thee well, good friend

Bill became part of our lives when Stephen and Jill married and more so upon the births of our common grandchildren.  He was a devoted father, grandfather, husband and friend.  His generous and gentle nature made all of us better people and his tenacity in living in the moment and engaging wholeheartedly in life was and will be an inspiration for all of us who knew him.  God rest your soul Bill and may all of your family be comforted by the fact that you loved them greatly.  We will miss you.  Florence and Ken

Dear Shirley, David and Stephen and families. So sorry to hear about Bill's passing, he was a wonderful person, many great memories of him visiting us over the years.My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Eileen MacKinnon

Sending love and hugs to you all. He was a special, special man who I feel honoured that our paths crossed and I got to know. Your wedding day and Ottawa Little Theatre are memories I will cherish forever. Take care.

Bill, you will be missed.  We are going to miss our card games and the laughter.  Shirley, you are amazing for all you did for Bill.
Best Friends Forever,
Jack and Gerry

I walked a mile with Pleasure; 
She chatted all the way; 
But left me none the wiser 
For all she had to say. 

I walked a mile with Sorrow, 
And ne'er a word said she; 
But, oh! The things I learned 
from her, 
When Sorrow walked with me.

David, Stephen and Shirley:  Our condolences to all.  Bill was a wonderful man.  We enjoyed many visits at his home in Bracebridge.

David, Stephen and Shirley:

Our sympathy to all.  Bill was a good man.  Enjoyed many visits at his home in Bracebridge.  Alan and Cecilia Cogan, Halifax, NS

Dear Shirley -- I did not know you well, but I knew Bill through the OBE.  He was a grand, gentle individual, who would always take the time to listen to what you had to see.  I had not seen him in many years, until the monthly pizza affair a couple of years ago.  Such fun!  His intellect, generosity and sense of fun were sustained by your great love which kept him going.  May he rest comfortably in the arms of his God.

Thank you for your kindness Bill , an honour sitting at your dinner table , Rest in Peace . Joseph & Linda

Shirley,
I wanted to send my condolences. I didn't know Bill but I know how much he meant to you by the way my grandmother spoke of the two of you. The loss of a loved one is always difficult, but I know from what Baba has told me that he, and you, went through a lot of pain so he is thankfully no longer suffering.
My thoughts and love are with you.  
Love,
Elyse

I had the pleasure of knowing Bill while working with the OBE many years ago. He was as described, a gentle gentleman, somewhat shy but always friendly. I am sorry to hear of his death. Condolences to all.
Garth Gilligan

So sorry to hear of Bill's passing but I'm sure it's a relief for you & his family. He has suffered for so long with his horrible desease.  God bless him. 

Bon courage my friend,

Rose-Marie

Shirley.
My sympathies to you on the passing of Bill. He was a positive man regardless of his health issues. You are an inspiration and teacher to those who live with a loved one battling so many health problems showing never to lose being grateful for the times together. 

Bonnie Lacroix

Shirley, David and Stephen, our deepest sympathies on the loss of husband & father. Having known Bill since 1972, there is a loss for Bill was like family.
Len & Denice Lenser

Shirley,Steven and David and families;
please accept our sincere sympathy --Bill was a wonderful man.  Clary and Joan MacDonald in Lismore N.S.

Fond memories of working with Bill at the OBE for many years.  Always a smile on his face and treated us all with such respect.  A shame that his latter years were ridden with ill health, and know that he is no longer suffering.  Enjoyed seeing him at the OBE Reunion Dinners.  Cherish the Memories.
Rhonna Levere

My dear Shirley, I am so very sorry to hear of Bill's passing.  He was so fortunate to have you in his life these past years.  May memories of your time together keep you strong during this difficult time.

Shirley, So sorry to hear your news...No matter how prepared we think we are, when it happens, we are lost, lonely and bewildered....Happy that Bill's at peace after such a long, arduous  illness...Hope you are keeping your chin up.  
Hugs,
Sue

 
Was out for supper had liver and onions in honour of Bill and You   hugssss

Oh Shirley, I am so sorry to hear about your dear husband Bill's passing away.  I send you my sincere condolences for your loss.  Your friend, Rita.

Hi Shirley,

Hans and I are on volunteer work in Pensacola, Florida. I wanted to let you know that our thoughts and prayers are being sent your way. 

My God hold you in the palm of his hand.

Laura

My dear Shirley

Words cannot express how sorry I was to hear about Bill. Thankfully he went peacefully, knowing how very much you cared for him. Although your relationship wasn't near long enough, how lucky the two of you were to have met and have such a special time together at this point in your lives. Take good care of yourself over the coming months - you must be exhausted both physically and spiritually.  You did well my friend in taking care of Bill in his final days and you can be very proud of yourself.....

Hopefully we can all get together sometime in April.

Hugs
Louise

Dear Shirley -

A very brief note to give Sarah and my condolences to you on Bill's passing.

I met Bill when I joined the CBE - we had the equivalent job at the two boards.  We would see each other every few months to touch base.

I always thought Bill was a supporter when I applied for the SO job at the OBE.  I greatly admired his courage facing his medical problems for so many years.

Bill was very lucky to have you for the last years.  It couldn't have been easy for you, and I admired your boundless good humour in trying circumstances.

No words of mine can lessen the pain of loss.  But know that Bill and you have many friends and admirers.

Michael and Sarah Clarke (Colonnade monthly get together)

Dear Shirley,
I am so sorry to hear of Bill's passing...yet so relieved to know that it was peaceful.
 I will be in Florida and unable to attend Bill's funeral, and so please accept my very deepest sympathies and know that you are in my thoughts and in my prayers.
Love,
Elaine

Shirley,
 
Very saddened by this news.  Please take care,
 
Russ Gibson
 
 
_______________________
Russell G. Gibson, partner
Gibsons LLP
Barristers, Solicitors & Notaries

Sorry to hear of Bill's passing. He was a genuine person with a great heart and a wonderful sense of humour. We know you will miss him dearly. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you. Thank you for letting us know.
Barrie & Joy

Hello Shirley.

I wanted to tell you how sorry we are to hear about the passing of Uncle Bill.  He suffered more than anyone should.  And I know how difficult it was for you too.  I'm sorry that we are out of town at this time, and won't be able to be there.  I am so happy we were able to all spend time together last summer.

Karen

The English language is shamefully inadequate  there are no words to say so, so sorry for your loss or anything like it.  What a blessing you were granted that he passed with a gentle sigh.  He couldn't say farewell, my precious girl but you know he was saying it is time, and I am deeply grateful for all the joy you brought into my life, and for all the care and concern you have shown to me during these difficult times.  You must be grateful for all that you were to him  very fortunate man.  You know he felt that way.  A gentle sigh indeed.  What a wonderful way to say goodbye. 
 
There is no doubt that you will not be as cognizant right now of the vital part you played in his wellbeing, such as it was.  How awful it would have been had he been to be Shirleyless in this time of suffering.

Shirley, I was saddened to hear of your loss. You and Bill were lucky to find soulmates in your later years.  He was an exceptional person.  Thoughts and prayers are with you.

My sympathy is extended to the Bird family at this very difficult time. It was a pleasure to work with Bill for many years at the Ottawa Board of Education (OBE).

Our sincere condolences to Shirley and the family for the passing of a great man.He was the best person to work for and my first boss. He will be greatly missed.

Shirley:
 
I just read ,with sadness, about Bill's passing. Bill was a good friend with an engaging smile and a strong sense of humour.
 
His OBE work as a superintendent of finance was always directed to help the students and schools. We worked together on may projects.
 
I'm so happy that he joined us in FOBEEP.  He was a valued and valuable member.  He enjoyed the dinners, meetings, special events and the OBE reunions so very much.
 
He faced his health adversities with strength, determination and courage.
 
You were a blessing to him. Your loving care was wonderful.  You and Bill will remain in our thoughts.
 
Sincerely, Ross Maxwell

Shirley:
 
I just read ,with sadness, about Bill's passing. Bill was a good friend with an engaging smile and a strong sense of humour.
 
His OBE work as a superintendent of finance was always directed to help the students and schools. We worked together on may projects.
 
I'm so happy that he joined us in FOBEEP.  He was a valued and valuable member.  He enjoyed the dinners, meetings, special events and the OBE reunions so very much.
 
He faced his health adversities with strength, determination and courage.
 
You were a blessing to him. Your loving care was wonderful.  You and Bill will remain in our thoughts.
 
Sincerely, Ross

Dear Shirley

We are so sorry to hear of Bill's passing.

In 1947 we moved onto Sutherland Dr; and one of the first people I met was Bill Bird. I was 11 and he was 10. Bill was in our wedding party and although our paths took us some miles apart we have remained friends all thru the years.

Thank you for the news---We wish you well

Dear Shirley,
Thank you so very much for the lovely pictures of you and Bill.....Memories for the rest of your life.
Once again I a very sad for your loss..He was an amazing soul
I really appreciated your phone call also Shirley..
Love and Bless you,
Your favorite sister in law..
C. Patricia Harris

Hello Shirley,

I am very sorry to hear this news.  While not unexpected, it is still very sad. 

Bill was most fortunate to have you through these past years. 

As I am away until the 20th of March, I will be unable to attend his funeral. 

Again, please accept my sincere condolences. Thinking of you. 

Warm regards 

Mary Lou

Dear Shirley,

We were all talking about Bill this morning at the Royal. Bonnie had been in to
visit with him and was giving us an update. He was an inspiration to us all.
 Feel very sad tonight for sure. Hope you are getting the support you need. If i
can do anything to help at this time, please ask. I loved how he seemed to
always put others first. We can all learn from him.

Sincerely,

Harvey

Dear Shirley,

Even though we knew Bill was very ill and going to leave us, nonetheless, his passing still brings a deep feeling of sadness and loss. As a young principal, I was always in awe of superintendents. But, somehow Bill made me feel relaxed as if to say, hey I want to help you to do your job. He held a place of high regard among all principals.

It seems only a few years ago that we met Bill at what else but a funeral. I believe he was returning from living away from Ottawa. A group of us had talked to him about joining FOBEEP and shortly after he became a member. Not only a member but he joined the Executive and participated in many of our activities. His and your generosity towards FOBEEP will always be remembered and appreciated.

The manner in which he handled his last few years, facing many challenges, is a model for all of us to follow. He was always positive and up beat, always wearing a smile,always with a laugh. We all marvelled as he checked off items on his bucket list.

I am sure that a big part of his last few years of happiness, we due in large part to your unfailing care and love for him. God sends angels to look after us and Bill was lucky to have you as his angel. May you find solace in remembering all the good times that you shared together.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you as we mourn his passing.

Shirley, our deepest sympathies and condolences for your loss. My name is Jon Massey and I am the new General Manager in Gravenhrust.
 
Although you and I have not met specifically I am very aware of you and Bill as I was the Director of Sales at the hotel for the last 6 years. The team at our hotel have the utmost respect for Bill and yourself and always looked forward to your visits. They will be very sad to hear of his passing.
 
I will share your email with our team, please let us know if there is anything we can do during this time to help you. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you always.
 
Yours in Hospitality,
Jon
General Manager- Residence Inn by Marriott Muskoka Wharf

OBITUARY

William Herbert Bird

14 May, 1937 – 8 March, 2017

McEvoy-Shields Funeral Home & Chapel

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