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William Donovan (Bill) Gwynne

June 6, 2012

June 27, 1922 – June 6, 2012

Bill was born in Edmonton on June 27, 1922 to Percy and Elizabeth Gwynne (nee Colgate). He was pre-deceased by his mother in 1975, his father in 1994 (at 100) and a sister Joan in 1966. He learned to fly at the Edmonton Flying club prior to enlistment in the RCAF. Bill served in England, Malta, North Africa and Italy flying Hurricanes and Spitfires. Three days after his return to Canada, he married his childhood sweetheart Rita Sanderson on February 5, 1944. Following a posting to Bagotville P.Q. flying the mighty Norseman, he joined TCA on July 2, 1946. He retired on July 31, 1977 with Air Canada. Bill and Rita spent many memorable seasons racing their thoroughbreds at Hastings Park in Vancouver and even more golfing between their homes in Kelowna and Indio, California. They moved to Sidney, B.C. in May of 2000.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 68 years Rita, a son Don (George) and daughter Sandy (Dave) and their 3 grown children Morgan (Gary), Toby (Jon) and Chevy (Wendy). He is also survived by his great grandchildren Paige, Elise, Piper, Campbell, Declan, Rowan and Keira. Sincere thanks to Dr.’s C. Cowan, D. Nagy, R. Cheung, J. Kaukinen, and R. Grimwood. Special mention to Julie and to Sharon Dash. Also a heartfelt thank you to all the staff at Parkwood Court for their kindness and care for dad in his final days.

At dads request there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the BC Cancer Foundation would be appreciated. Memories can be shared at www.earthsoption.com



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