William Francis Joyce

Son of teacher Genevieve (Saunders) and carpenter Frank Joyce, Bill ended his schooling early to making his living in the woods. His interest in flying led to a pilot’s license and the purchase of a float plane to discover Vancouver Island. When his interests turned to travel, the plane financed a trip to Europe. His motor bike took him through the western and southern states as far as the Everglades. When his interests turned to the sea, he got a master’s ticket and operated tug boats out of both Port Alberni and Vancouver.

Bill had a strong social conscience but he was not an outgoing person, yet he was kind and generous. When he encountered hikers in Port Alberni struggling to find a way to the Della Falls trailhead, he volunteered to shuttle them across Central Lake and be their guide if asked.

Environmental protection became very important to him; his convictions took him to high profile areas. He was arrested for sitting before a bulldozer at the Cream Silver mine in Strathcona Park, and for protecting logging in Clayoquot Sound and the Central Coast. Not finishing there, he added his supplies and knowledge to erecting the tree platforms high in the trees of Cathedral Grove. Bill’s convictions made him a caring caregiver in his father’s final phase of life, where his passions turned to gardening. The yard now features more than 200 hostas.

Bill is survived by his sister, Edna Joyce (Victoria). There will be no memorial service at his request. Bill was, and Edna remains extremely grateful for the care and attention provided by the staff and volunteers at Ty Watson House.

Donations may be made in his name to: Ty Watson House, 3088 3rd Avenue, Port Alberni, B.C. V9Y 2A5, or to the Western Canada Wilderness Committee.