William Carroll McArthur

Bill was born on October 6, 1931, at the family homestead in Lower Woodstock, New Brunswick, to William and Anna McArthur..

Bill joined the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) in the mid 1950's, and, after his trades training in Aylmer Ontario, was posted to RCAF Station Comox on Vancouver Island. Needless to say, he fell in love with the Valley, and would, continue to call it home for the remainder of his life.

As a military technician, he served with 409 Maintenance Squadron in Comox. Bill retired as a Sergeant after 35 years of dedicated service. Not one to sit idle, he continued applying his technical skills, spending a number of years — with the support of his co-workers and friends, Larry and Ian — installing satellite systems from Nanaimo, to Port Hardy in the north end of Vancouver Island.

At an early age, he developed a deep love of fishing that remained with him throughout his life. Many a lake in both New Brunswick and here on Vancouver island, holds memories of this kind fellow plowing the waters with his boat, looking for that perfect spot to drop a line. And the rivers can still feel him, hip waders on, vest adorned with his best flys, rod in hand, and of course, his ever present Tilley hat, tilted just so to keep the sun out of his eyes, as he worked his way into the river, looking for that spot that was just right. Whether he was downrigging for salmon, casting out flys for steelhead and trout, or picking butter clams off the beach at low tide to make his classic clam chowder, Bill really did enjoy the outdoors.

With his quiet, easy-going demeanor, Bill as well, greatly enjoyed the company of family and friends. His low key subtle humor was always present, “You know, we should eat dessert first” Bill would often say at get together,s for dinner, and he was always ready to spin a yarn or two. His story of catching and holding a hummingbird as a young boy, and his “Sizzling Lightbolt” story from a holiday in Germany, were two of his classics.

As well as his love of fishing, Bill not only liked to work on aircraft, he also loved to fly them. And no engines for Bill, it was sailplane (glider) all the way. He would often go to Port Alberni, or, just south of border, to launch his plane, catch some thermals, and, soar amongst the clouds.

He is survived by his stepdaughters, Debbie and Laura; stepson, Dave; 12 grandchildren; and 9 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife, Doreen; his parents, William and Anna; his brothers, Paul, Lloyd, Lew, Don, and Ralph; and his sisters, Catherine (Katy), Mildred, and Faye.

He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.....

“May thermals always be under your wings, the trout.... always be biting, and the sun.... always be on your back.”

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.