William John Giles

Ironically, Bill was not usually one to just drift away. Whether you were walking by their home, over for dinner, or at a gathering, Bill was usually the first one to shout a hello and crack a few one liners that would make you smile. It will be a bit quieter when you walk by that driveway next time.

If you needed a drive to the airport, were building a birdhouse or a meal to be prepared, Bill would be the first one there to help. He was also an excellent singer and was sorely missed when he quit the choir a few years ago.

Born in Ottawa, Ontario in 1942, his father was in the Air Force and the family moved to various locations including Washington, DC and small towns in Ontario such as Chesterville and Winchester where owned and managed lumber yards. He finished his career with the Federal Government where he tracked by late GST payers and with his charm probably had their highest collection rate ever.

He retired in 2007 and moved to Kelowna where he and Edna took up residence in Sunrise village until his passing. Most of his family live in Ontario. He is survived by his two sisters, Diane and Virginia, his two sons, Ross and Matthew as well as his step father to Marilyn, Mimi, and Chuck.

And most importantly, he was the loving husband for 36 years to Edna Giles (nee Merkley). As Edna’s mobility decreased, he was the ultimate companion. She could barely mention wanting something for dinner and he would pop out of his chair, run to the store and have it in cooked up for her before she could finish the sentence. One almost wonders if he knew that he was slowing down and wouldn’t be able to care for her the same way as he had and knew that he had to go because no one could do it like he did so he simply left us. But not without a lifetime of memories.

Cheers Billy, we won’t forget you.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.firstmemorialfuneralkelowna.com for the Giles family.

Arrangement entrusted with First Memorial Funeral Services, Kelowna, BC 250-762-2299