Bill passed away peacefully at the Health Sciences Centre on January 22, 2024, at the age of 77.
Bill was born at Canora, Saskatchewan in October 1946. He moved with his parents and two sisters to Winnipeg at a very young age. He attended Robertson School, Andrew Mynarski Junior High and Sisler High School. As a teenager growing up in the city in the 1960s, he spent a lot of time going to dances. Back then there were dances held every weekend on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings. Bill loved going to the dances and loved to dance.
He was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Florence and his older sister Patricia.
He leaves to mourn his passing his loving wife of 55 years, Rosalie, his two sons, Colby (Amanda) and Damon (Jennifer), his heart and soul - his four grandchildren, Cassidy, Cole J, Declan J, Madeline and one great-grandson Sebastian, as well as his younger sister Michelle.
Bill began his career with the City of Winnipeg in the Waterworks Department in 1965. He worked in various departments until fatigue due to Multiple Sclerosis made it necessary for him to take disability leave in 1986. At the time he was the Manager of Civic Properties. He enjoyed his work life and was very well respected by all those he managed. He was known to be very fair with a good sense of humour. He was a Union supporter throughout his career and was a Shop Steward before becoming Management.
Bill was elected as School Trustee in 1981. At the time of his retirement from the Seven Oaks School Board in 2014, he was one of the longest serving elected officials in North Winnipeg. He won every election in his ward. He was proud to be a long time member of one of the best Managed School Divisions in Winnipeg. He also served a term with MAST.
Bill curled with his workmates in the Civic Curling League for many years. He and his teammates took home a few trophies over the years. His next athletic role was as Hockey Coach for both his young sons. He became very involved with the Maples Community Centre. Bill designed the logo for the club that still adorns their signage and all their team jerseys to this day.
Bill was very easy going - a true people person, making friends wherever he went. He will be dearly missed by extended family, his many friends, acquaintances and all who were fortunate to know him.
Bill lived a fulfilled life, he travelled extensively with his wife, children and grandchildren, he was very thankful for a wonderful family and friends. Rest in peace my love.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 17, 2024, at 3:30 p.m., at West Kildonan Collegiate, 101 Ridgecrest Ave., “Wear your dancing shoes”.
If friends so desire, donations in Bill’s memory can be made to The Bill McGowan Scholarship, at Seven Oaks Education Foundation, 830 Powers St., Winnipeg, MB.
