William "Bill" John Andrews

Bill is predeceased by his parents Milton and Stella Andrews; his brother-in-law Jim Finnie (2008), wife Irene (2008) after 47 years of marriage, and his 21 year old grandson Bryan Mason (2011).

He will be greatly missed by his daughter Donna (John) Douglas, son David Andrews, grandson Brad Mason, and step granddaughters Charlie and Georgia.

He will also be greatly missed by his sisters June (Bud) Pedersen, Dorothy Aston, Margaret (Ray) Miller, and his brother Charles (Coreen) Andrews; his many nieces and nephews, his many dear friends, as well as his partner and close companion Bev Hintz.

Bill was born in Clute, Northern Ontario, lived in Norwood until the age of eight years, when his family moved out to Port Alberni, BC. Bill graduated from ADHS in 1957, and was a member of the Chieftans basketball team, which won the very first Totem Tournament (Bill was the MVP). Bill also broke a high school record running the one mile race.

Bill loved his sports as a player, coach, and spectator. He played for the Alberni Athletics Baseball team, recreational hockey, and of course basketball, winning the “most sportsmanlike” trophy many times. He was a strong supporter of the Alberni Valley Bulldogs, and he never missed his grandson Bryan’s hockey games and tournaments. Bill was a very involved member of the Alberni Athletic Association for over sixty years.

Bill worked at the Paper Mill for 41 years as a tester, inspector, and then in programming until his retirement in 2000. He enjoyed a wonderful life with family and friends. His summers were spent fishing on Bells Bay at Franklin River, and swimming in Sproat Lake. He had a great time traveling abroad and on road trips throughout Canada and the USA.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Alberni Valley Athletic Hall, 3727 Roger Street, Port Alberni, BC at 1:00pm on Sunday, October 25, 2015. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bill’s memory to Ty Watson House, Alberni Valley Hospice Society, 3088 3 Ave, Port Alberni, BC V9Y 2A5. Stories and condolences may be left for the family at www.chapelofmemories.ca.