William James Godfrey

After a life of passion and principle, William (“Willy”) James Godfrey, 61, passed away at Lakeridge Health-Oshawa, surrounded by his family on the 30th of April, 2013. Willy is preceded in death by his father and mother, William and Diana Godfrey, his brother Danny Godfrey and his mother-in-law Rita McCann. He will be greatly missed by his beloved wife Mary-Anne, his three sons Matthew, Sean Michael, And Liam, as well as brothers Richard, Dave (Christine), and Timothy (Pamela), and sisters Diana (Gary), Linda (Randy), and Martha (Clyde). His memory will be cherished by his father-in-law Larry McCann, his many brothers and sisters-in-law, dozens of nieces and nephews, and all of the friends he so warmly touched. Willy was born in Toronto to William and Diana Godfrey on the 10th of March, 1952. He graduated from Teacher’s College, the University of Guelph and Centennial College and worked as an educator in Toronto and Durham for over 32 years. He was a tireless advocate for social justice, a devout Liberal, and a proud Canadian. Willy was a lover of music, camping, sports, his garden, a hearty laugh, and dancing with wild abandon with his partner of nearly 35 years, Mary-Anne. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer only two months ago. His spirit and idealism will be missed but never forgotten. Visitation will be held at the OSHAWA FUNERAL HOME, 847 King Street West (905-721-1234) on Friday, May 10th, from 2 – 4 and 7 – 9 p.m. Funeral Service will be held in the Chapel on Saturday, May 11th at 11:00 a.m. with Reverend Marc Doucet officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Lakeridge Health – Oshawa Cancer Centre.