William “Bill/Billy” Smith, 80, of Orillia and The Blue Mountains, Ontario, passed away on August 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born in Toronto, Ontario, on September 16, 1944, to Marjory Snowball and Albert Smith, Bill was a loyal husband to Dianne Smith (Née Philp, of 57 years) and a proud father to Rob Smith (Oricia), Heather Smith (Duke), and Joanna Smith (Ben). He was a beloved Papa to Regan, Trevor, Lauren, Willow, Scout, Oliver, and Sadie.
Bill built a successful career as an automotive parts business owner, known for his leadership, integrity, vision, and dedication. He traveled extensively, orchestrating deals with companies based in Japan, Italy, Brazil, Mexico, and the United States, and served on numerous boards spanning education, sports, healthcare, and the automotive industry.
Outside of work, Bill had a zest for life. He loved sports, boating, motorcycles, and spending time in the Blue Mountains and Sarasota, Florida. He cherished boating on Georgian Bay, the Trent-Severn Waterway, the Florida Intracoastal Waterway and Lakes Couchiching and Simcoe, often entertaining family and friends and exploring scenic routes, including Henry’s in Sans Souci and Mar Vista in Longboat Key.
Sports were his true passion. He was deeply involved in the Orillia Minor Hockey Program, supported Orillia Minor Lacrosse, and played a role in bringing the Toronto Rock Lacrosse team to Toronto, as well as the Ottawa Rebels Lacrosse to Ottawa and reviving the Ottawa Renegades Football team. His lifelong contributions to sport were recognized with his 2021 induction into the Orillia Sports Hall of Fame as a Builder in hockey, lacrosse, and football—a testament to his leadership and vision.
Bill touched countless lives with his generosity and kindness. Whether he was equipping an athlete with gear, funding sports registration or travel fees, connecting people with opportunities, or being a steady support for those working to get back on their feet, he always gave of himself quietly and without need for recognition. He never sought the spotlight, yet his impact was far-reaching, and his legacy continues in the many people whose lives he helped shape.
In retirement, Bill dove wholeheartedly into his passions, participating in sports executive groups and motorcycle adventures. He explored breathtaking landscapes across Canada and the United States, attending iconic bike weeks in Daytona, Laconia, Sturgis, Sedona, and Myrtle Beach.
Bill was a force of nature—fierce in his pursuits, full of humour, and profoundly generous. His fiery spirit and warmth touched all who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his wife, children, grandchildren, band of brothers, friends, and all who were fortunate to know him.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Hawk Ridge Golf Club in Orillia, Ontario, on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 1:00–4:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Orillia Minor Hockey Association and Hospice Georgian Triangle.
Condolences
Dianne Snowball
Sep 1, 2025Dear Dianne and family, So very sorry for your loss. I will miss my cousin Billy. Hugs, Dianne
Angelo
Aug 31, 2025Dianne and family, our sincerest and deepest condolences. We will greatly miss Bill, as he was a very good man and enjoyed life to the fullest. Angelo, Gina and family.
Judy Raven
Aug 29, 2025Dianne & family Sad to hear of the passing of your beloved Bill. Cherish the memories Hugs Dayne & Judy
Sheryn Jefferies
Aug 29, 2025Dianne and family, Please accept my sincere condolences on the passing of your dear husband and father. It’s not easy losing a soul mate of 50 plus years and a father for many of those.❤️
Jeff Stephenson
Aug 29, 2025Dianne & family, our deepest condolences. Bill was definitely a once-in-a-lifetime type of guy. Jeff & all the owners & staff at Firehall Pizza & Tholos in the Village.
Bob Fitches
Aug 29, 2025Truly one of a kind. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Thinking of the family during this difficult time.
Ross and Lise Tyrell
Aug 29, 2025Dianne and family were floored to find out. Our deepest thoughts are with you and prayers for Smitty. He had a profound influence on me and many others as you know.
Nancy and David Bowman
Aug 29, 2025Stable Lane will never be the same without you. Our love to Diane and your children. The Smith family has been a joy to know !
Sylvia Smith
Aug 29, 2025Sincere sympathy to all of Bill’s family, Gerry and I, along with our kids of many fond memories of Christmas Eve’s at the Osiwippi in Orillia and Thanksgiving’s in Sarasota. We all enjoyed Bill’s chuckle and certainly his friendship over many years. 💕Sylvia and Gerry
Priit Pallopson
Aug 29, 2025You will be missed Bill after putting your mark on this life in so many areas. Thinking of your family in this very difficult moment.
Jackie and Cully Koza
Aug 29, 2025We are sending our deepest sympathies for your loss. Bill was a good friend and we treasure many happy memories of the good times we shared. We are keeping you all close in our thoughts. ❤️Jackie and Cully
Ron Keyser
Aug 28, 2025Bill was indeed a force of nature, fierce of spirit and touched all of us who worked for him at Seeburn Metal Products with his leadership. He will be remembered for many stories.
Laurie Herd (Pruner)
Aug 28, 2025So very sorry to hear that you have lost Bill. He and Diane and family were neighbours to my parents George & Kay Pruner on 'the point'. Bill did so much for the community especially in sport but also helped out in other ways, such as some Theatre programs with which I was involved. Blessings for peace to all his family and friends. His memory will live on. Laurie and Doug Herd