Peacefully, passed away on Thursday December 26th with family by his side. Bill is survived by his children Paul Graham (Jennifer Graham); Annie Coulson (Matt Coulson); and was adored Bapa to Alex, Will & Sylvia and Grandpa to Mason.
He is also survived by his sister Bonnie Kennedy, nephew Michael Kennedy and niece Catherine Kennedy. Bill was predeceased by Beryl Graham and Sharon Andrews and played a special role in the lives of Geoff & Ginny Andrews.
Bill was born in Chatham, ON. From the beginning, Bill’s life was full of music. After attending Lord Byng Secondary in Vancouver BC, Bill received numerous scholarships and attended the Banff School of Fine Arts, The Royal Conservatory of Music and The University of Toronto. Throughout the 60’s, Bill was very active in the Canadian Folk & Classical music scene which included performances on CBC Radio and numerous TV music specials. He was also a member of The Canadian Opera Company. Afterwards, Bill attended the University of Toronto and graduated top of his class with a Bachelor of Music Degree in Performance and a Bachelor of Education.
In 1974, Bill turned his attention to teaching where he became Head of Music at East York Collegiate. Throughout his 30-year career, Bill directed 12 full-scale musicals. It was through these musicals that inspired Bill to create the Music Theatre course for East York Collegiate – arguably one of his proudest achievements. Bill was also conductor for the East York Collegiate Choir and was the founding conductor of the East York Singers in 1985. Throughout the years, Bill put on numerous concerts including conducting Handel’s Messiah with a choir of 140 singers. Bill had a profound impact on numerous students and influenced many to follow their dreams. In retirement, Bill continued to be involved in music conducting The William Graham Singers and performing in the Retro Ramblers Quartet.
A long-time member of Ashbridge’s Bay Yacht Club, Bill’s other passion was sailing. He spent many summers cruising around Lake Ontario and the Thousand Islands with friends and family.
Funeral Service will be held at St. Cuthbert’s Anglican Church, 1399 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, Ontario on Monday, December 30, 2019 at 11 am.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the The Minstrel Foundation (www.minstrelfoundation.org). Condolences and memories may be forwarded through www.markeydermody.com.
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