June 22, 1937 – August 11, 2024
“Bill”, as he was known to family and friends, passed away at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital, (OSMH), on Sunday, August 11’th. Bill is survived by his wife Sylvia (nee Orr), his brother Ben (Shirley) of Orillia, his children Darryl (Brenda) & Ben (Cathryn) of Orillia, Jeff (Cindy) of Whitehorse & Kim (Jamie) of St. Catharines. Bill is also survived by six grandchildren; Karlie, Jessica, Andrew, Lisa, Courtney & Tye; and was tragically pre-deceased by his granddaughter Elizabeth.
Bill grew up on a farm on Fairgrounds Road & eventually owned & operated his own farm at Coulson from 1963 until 1993. He also became a licensed electrician; and from 1970 until 1993 he owned and operated “Wm. Cole Electric”. His son Darryl worked by his side for several years wiring homes & barns, installing hydro poles and eventually servicing the entire Village of Coldwater’s Hydro System in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s. Bill enjoyed his work and was insistent that it be done to a high standard.
When Bill retired in 1993, he & Sylvia travelled across Canada and through Alaska with their truck and trailer. They also enjoyed many summers camping and fishing on Lake Nipissing near North Bay. Bill became an accomplished wood worker, building magnificent pieces of oak & pine furniture in his workshop for family and friends, with Sylvia staining and selecting hardware for many of the pieces that are still in our homes today.
A loyal husband, father, grandfather and friend, Bill could always be counted on when those close to him required assistance. At Bill’s request, cremation will be scheduled promptly, and no public visitation or services are planned. Bill’s family would like to thank the many health care professionals who have assisted with his care in recent years, particularly Dr. Rachael Sheppard, the staff of Bayshore Nursing Services & the staff members at OSMH.
Arrangements entrusted to Carson Funeral Homes L. Doolittle Chapel, 54 Coldwater St. E., Orillia (705) 326-3595
Condolences
Kathy Finlay
Aug 13, 2024So very sorry for your loss. Kathy Finlay
Robert Foster
Aug 12, 2024Dear Syl, Ben and Cathy, Darryl and families I was very sorry to hear that Bill had passed. I have many great memories of visiting the farm at Coulson and spent many enjoyable Saturday nights there, watching hockey and enjoying a great meal and visiting with Bill and Syl who were very kind to me. I shall remember many great talks with Bill about many subjects, including farming, electrical wiring, automobile engines and many other subjects. Bill was a hard worker and a straight shooter and an inspiration to a young man. Cathy and I will remember him fondly. Sincerely Bob and Cathy Foster Fergus ON
Rob and Penny Doughty
Aug 12, 2024Sorry to hear of Bill’s passing, Sylvia. Our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Rob & Penny Doughty Antigonish, Nova Scotia
Wendy Hough
Aug 12, 2024Sorry to hear of Bill's passing, our condolences to Sylvia and the family. Wendy and Ralph Hough
Lisa and Kari
Aug 11, 2024Lisa and I are very sorry to hear of the passing of Uncle Bill. We both have awesome memories of so much fun out at your Coulson farm and at Grandma and Grandpa's house when we were young. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.