HARRIS William “Bill” George (October 1, 1941 – April 14, 2022)
The Harris family sadly announces the passing of their much-loved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend to many, William ‘’Bill’’ George Harris of Tillsonburg in his 81st year. Born in Hamilton to his parents the late George Harris and the late Jessie (Fairhurst) (Harris) Ray and stepson of the late J. Frank Ray. Bill had a great love for his family. Married 59 wonderful years to Gail (Hammond) Harris sharing many lasting memories. Also survived by his children Cameron (Lynne) of Brampton, ON and their son Brendan; Virginia (Darryl Verhoeve) of Tillsonburg, ON, and their daughters Amanda (Quinn) and Justine (Austin); Andrew (Jennifer) of Ottawa and their children Patrick, Laura, Matthew. Survived by a sister Darlene Harris, niece Cheri (John Reed) and their son Austin of Wellington, NS and nephew Steve (Anna) Pearce of Campbellford, ON, and their children Jessica, Angelina and Antonio. Survived by brother-in-law James Hammond (Catherine) of Edmonton, AB. Predeceased by brother-in-law Wayne Pearce.
Bill will be vividly remembered as a loving and supportive husband and devoted, caring dad and grandfather, uncle, relative and friend. Bill had a strong work ethic and worked hard all his life, always wanting to see things through. Bill was a dedicated employee and manager with CIBC for 36 years, and held positions with several community service organizations throughout his banking career, before retiring in 1996 in Essex, ON. He continued to work for another 20 years after retirement with H&R Block in Tillsonburg. Always an avid outdoorsman, Bill had a passion for hunting, golfing and fishing. Curling was also of strong interest to Bill and he was a proud Past President of the Tillsonburg Curling Club and a proud member of the Otter Valley Rod and Gun Club, Straffordville.
A celebration of life for Bill Harris will be held on Thursday, May 19th, 2022, at the Tillsonburg Curling Club (128 Concession St. E., Tillsonburg). All who knew Bill are welcomed to attend his celebration of life ceremony, beginning at 1 p.m. by Chaplain Tina Dias, with reception and open house to follow at 2:00 p.m. The family is requesting masks to be worn if able. Memorial donations to the “Woodstock Hospital Foundation” or to the “Tillsonburg District Memorial Hospital Foundation” or to the “Helping Hand Food Bank” would be appreciated by the Harris Family and can be contributed via Bill’s online tribute page at www.verhoevefuneralhomes.com or by contacting the Maurice J. Verhoeve Funeral Homes, 262 Broadway, Tillsonburg (519)842-4238.