William Thomas Edsil Wilson

William Thomas Edsil Wilson, beloved husband and father, passed away peacefully at the age of 93 on the evening of July 31st, 2023, at his home surrounded by his family. He leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and a lifetime of cherished memories that will forever remain in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Born on April 24th, 1930, In London, Ontario, Canada. William was the son of William Stanley Wilson and Mary Elizabeth LeNeve. He was a center child in a family of 11. From an early age, he exhibited a determination and zest for life that would define his character throughout the years. His genuine compassion and warmth endeared him to many who crossed his path, making lifelong friendships along the way.

In the journey of life, while still a young man off on his first true adventure after High School, he found himself at a job in an ice cream factory in Radville, Sask. Canada. There he found his soulmate, Iola May Cassidy, with whom he shared a bond of love that knew no bounds. The met, fell in love, eloped about 2 weeks later and were married on Aug 25,1951 in Vancouver BC, Canada. Their union was a testament to devotion and loyalty spanning just shy of 72 years of happiness and companionship. Their love provided the foundation for a nurturing home that raised seven wonderful children of their own and several children he and Iola welcomed to their family as unofficial “foster children”. Each was dearly loved, and all were taught and encouraged to carry the values instilled by their devoted parents into their adult lives.

A few years after their marriage William and Iola met missionaries from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. They became very committed to the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ they were being taught. They were baptized in 1961, with the children following along in the appointed years. They raised their family in the Gospel, eventually being sealed in the Ogden Temple in 1980. Many years later they went on to serve a wonderful and successful mission as a Senior couple in July 1993 in the Kentucky-Louisville Mission.

William's career path led him to excel in the field of sales, where his charm and persuasive abilities earned him accolades and respect from colleagues and clients alike. For an impressive span of 50 years, he dedicated himself to this profession, leaving an indelible mark and making an enduring impact on those he encountered.

In addition to his professional achievements in that career path, he was an excellent carpenter and in all his spare time, a true entrepreneur. He created and owned his own printing business, with his own printing press in the basement of our home. He created an import/export business that he and Iola ran for many years. Besides his businesses and career, he never neglected his role as a dedicated family man.

William always had a strong testimony of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His faith was a guiding force in his life, and he found solace, community, and purpose within the church's teachings. His commitment to his beliefs inspired others, and he lived his life as a shining example of love, compassion, and service to those around him.

Outside and Inside of his career and family life, William was also a determined and even stubborn man, when it mattered to him. He could be a bit moody and sometimes was even called ornery in between his more loving and tender moments. But there were many good times, to help overcome the harder times.

He had a wonderful love for music and a melodious voice that brought joy to those around him. He could play many instruments and thrilled his kids and friends with his fun, silly and upbeat songs. He found solace and happiness in singing and playing and his captivating performances resonated with family and friends alike. The family did many roadshows and community performances as well. He encouraged all the children to be involved with music in whatever capacity it pleased them. Many still do so and have developed a lot of talent from his example and love of music.

He had an incredible love of the scouting program and served in it for many years as he was able to be a scout master for so many young men while even teaching and loving 2 of his many grandsons thru it, all the way to the Eagle Scout Award rank. He loved and played golf in all of his older years, and at one special moment got to even play on a course in Hawaii. He shared that love especially with his Son Larry and Daughter Shelley.

He began collecting coins as a young man and loved showing and teaching his kids about the value of money and the worth of coins.

In his later years, William continued to inspire and connect with people, embracing the changing times while cherishing the values that had guided him throughout his life. His wisdom and humility made him a source of strength for those around him.

William Thomas Edsil Wilson's memory will be forever cherished by his beloved wife, Iola May Cassidy Wilson, his seven children, William Thomas Arthur Wilson, Lawrence Patrick Stanley Wilson, Shelley Lee Sybil Gish, Theresa Annette Rainsdon, Randy Brett Wilson, Tracy Marie Wilson and Tiffany Lynn Bangle and his many many grandchildren and great grandchildren. He will be dearly missed by his remaining siblings, John Wilson and Delores King and other extended family members, friends, and all who knew him.

As we bid farewell to a remarkable man, we find comfort in the thought that his legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched. Let us remember William with joy and gratitude for the life he lived, the profound impact he made on the lives of others, and the unwavering faith that guided him throughout his journey.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of William Thomas Edsil Wilson will be held on Aug 11, 2023, at the LDS chapel located at 3233 NE 162nd. Portland Oregon, 97230 at 10:00 am for the viewing, and 11:00 am for the services.

The graveside will be at Sunset Hills Memorial Park for the family and invited guests later on that day.

Rest in eternal peace, dear William. Your light will forever shine upon us.

If anyone would like to send flowers for this funeral, please have them delivered to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 9:30 AM on Friday Aug 11, 2023. Chapel Location: 3233 NE 162nd St. Portland OR 97230

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