Lawrence William Bateman

In loving memory of Lawrence William Bateman who was affectionately known as Bill to his friends and Billy to his family.  He was born on June 10, 1950 in Barrie, Ontario.  Bill was a brother to Helen, Jim, Sheila, Alice, Jean and Nancy and a special Brother-in-law to Shannon and he was predeceased by his parents: Bill and Anne Bateman; brothers: Norval, Bruce and Mike; sister Francis and; sister-in-law Marie.  He was an especially proud grandfather of two granddaughters Abbi and Emelia, the Father of Shelley and Father-in-law to Matt. 

Bill enjoyed quick banter with anyone that he came into contact with.  If you were a server or a cashier, he took the time to personalize the encounter with an aim to find humour using his quick wit.  With friends and acquaintances, he was beyond generous with his time and resources, often giving them more than he had for himself.  Up to his final days, he was assisting people to get to medical appointments and offering small comforts for others when he could.  He was an integral part of the community that he created.  Bill was a deep thinker and empath who offered solace to people who were going through tough times. He intuitively cued into moments that were important and key times.  For instance, on the day that he walked his daughter down the aisle on her wedding day, he knew that eagles were an important part of his daughter's life.  As they walked towards the altar, he told her that ‘her eagles’ were here, like they had been released from a tether to appear overhead to honour the special day.

Although a quote he shared at many weddings, it seems fitting here to anyone who reads this as his wish for you on your journey:

"May the worst days of your future be better than the best days of your past."

David Leadbeater

He will be missed by all family members named above along with his many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and cherished friends that he met along his life's journey. Dad, Poppa, Brother, Son, Bill, Uncle and Friend - We know that you will be in the wind that we feel on our cheeks as you soar free!  As per Bill’s wishes he was laid to rest in a private family gathering.