Obituary of William John Wharnsby

After a full and meaningful life, Bill passed away at the Grand River Hospital, Freeport Campus at the age of 82.

Bill is survived by his wife of 60 years, Marnie (nee Bordman) whom he married on October 5, 1957, children Cathy Brown (Ken), Tim Wharnsby (Kathy Broderick), Liz Wharnsby (Said Arazm), David Wharnsby, grandchildren Erica (Brandon) Sharp and Matthew Brown, sister Sandy (Paul) Kalbfleish, sister-in-law Bernice  Wettlaufer, and many nieces and nephews.

Predeceased by his parents William and Marie (nee Rickert) Wharnsby, sister Mary (Dennis) Johnston, brothers-in-law Harold (Shirley) Bordman, Ken Wettlaufer, and sister-in-law Ruby (Ab) Mathers.

Bill was a member of St. Louis RC Church in Waterloo. He retired from Waterloo Metal Stampings as Vice President of Sales and Marketing after 31 years of service and was well respected by his customers and salesmen throughout Canada and the U.S.  Upon retirement in 1995, Bill drove as a volunteer driver for the Canadian Cancer Society to London, Toronto and Hamilton and sang in the Waterloo Regional Police Male Chorus (achieving a Life Membership Award).  In his younger days, Bill refereed and played football and hockey.  He was an avid sports fan and especially enjoyed playing golf; highlights were being present at a Masters Golf Tournament in Augusta, Georgia and two golf trips to Ireland with his son Tim.  Bill and Marnie enjoyed many trips and visits to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.

The family wishes to thank all of Bill’s caregivers from Winston Park, Grand River Hospital Emergency, 8th Floor C Wing, and especially Freeport Palliative Care Centre.  Their kind and thoughtful care of Bill and our whole family was exemplary.  We are so grateful!

According to Bill’s wishes, there will be no visitation.  A funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Louis RC Church, 53 Allen St. E., Waterloo on Thursday, October 19, 2017 at 11 a.m. with Rev. Phil Reilly as Celebrant.  A reception will immediately follow at the church.  A private family interment will be held at Mount Hope Cemetery, Waterloo.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to St. Louis RC Church, The Working Centre, or Grand River Hospital Freeport Palliative Care would be appreciated by the family as expressions of sympathy.  Donations and condolences for the family may be arranged by contacting the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo at www.erbgood.com or 519-745-8445.