It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Bill, a husband, a father, grandfather and friend at the age of 69, in Merritt, BC
Bill leaves to mourn his loving wife of 48 ½ years, Jane, his two daughters Marlene (Bud) Sandback, Landon & McKenzie of Penticton, BC and Cheryl Fex & Cole of Merritt; his brother Marvin (Irene) Chapelle of Chetwynd, BC; his sister Jewell Fournier (Chris) of Williams Lake, BC; his brothers in law Allan (Inez) Smith of Logan Lake, Roger (Lynn) Smith of Toronto, Ontario and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.
Predeceased by his grandparents Angus & Gertrude Chapelle and George & Gladys Lund, his mother Katherine Chapelle, father William & Inez Chapelle and brothers Dale and Don Chapelle.
As a child Bill moved around to different communities in BC and spent his youth in Burns Lake, BC where he leaves many old friends. As a young adult he lived in Summerland, Penticton and then moving to Merritt having spent over 45 years here. Bill did many different things in his life, mining, chimney sweep, orchard labourer, drove mail truck and mostly trucking in the Nicola Valley.
Bill was very proud of his family and grandchildren.
Bill started his battle with kidney disease at the age of 30. At 36 he received his first kidney transplant, which lasted 15 years. He then received his second transplant at the age of 52. Bill started his battle with cancer approximately 10 years ago and fought a long hard courageous battle.
Bill leaves many special friends who have been a part of his life.
There will be a Celebration of Bill’s life on Saturday, July 12, 2008 at 1:00 p.m. in the Crossroads Community Church, Merritt. Interment will follow at Pine Ridge Cemetery.
The family offers grateful thanks to Dr. Don McLeod for the many years of medical support. We would also like to thank the staff of NVGH for their wonderful support in Bill’s final days.
Donations may be made in Bill’s honour to the Canadian Kidney Foundation or the Canadian Cancer Society.
Arrangements entrusted to Merritt Funeral Chapel, telephone 250–378–2141.