Obituary of Billie Bucholtz

Peacefully, surrounded by family, on Thursday November 14, at Hardy Terrace Nursing Home, Mt Pleasant Ontario in his 92nd year. Beloved husband of the late Ruth Bucholtz ( Laird ). Much loved father of Gwen Burrows and her husband Terry, the late Karen Wensveen (Nov 8, 1997), and husband Doug Marriott, the late Jeff Bucholtz (Dec. 28, 2002), Wendy Andrew and husband Rob, Ruthann and the late Jim Watkins (April 1, 2017 ), Sandy and the late Mark DeKoning, (Oct 12, 2018), Kim Banko and husband Greg, and Craig Bucholtz. Much loved grandfather to 19 grandchildren, and great grandfather to 19 great grandchildren (baby Isla deceased Jan 31, 2017)

Billie, was born in Otterville Ontario, July 27, 1928, to Emma and Wilhelm Bucholtz. One of 9 children, Bill outlived all his siblings, and if asked, would attribute his longevity to clean living. He believed in “clean” eating, long before any of us knew there was a difference.

Bill and Ruth’s courtship started while he was recuperating in hospital after a serious car accident, and Ruth was his nurse. They were married within the year on October 7th, 1950.

Ruth passed away May 5, 2006, after a long battle with a rare neurological disease. As her disease progressed, Bill cared for her, to the best of his abilities, and with some coaching from her wheelchair, she taught him how to cook. So, it’s true, what they say, what goes around, comes around. He readily admitted she was the best thing that ever happened to him.

Bill was a carpenter and contractor, and built many homes in the area during the 60’s and 70’s. He had many interests, including a love of history, music, ( self taught-guitar ) reading, travelling, and nature.

Ever resourceful, Bill built his own sailboat - a 14ft International and Ruth sewed the sails. There were many picnics and camping trips that were really, just an excuse for him to go sailing.

Although not highly schooled he was self educated though his love of reading. If you had a conversation with Bill, that included anything to do with history or nature, you would likely learn something you never knew before.

He was a person with a strong faith and a kind heart. It was not unusual for him to give hitch hikers a ride, and often bring them home, where they were welcomed at the dinner table. He felt strongly that as a good Christian, you must be prepared to have room in the passenger seat for anyone needing it. Metaphorically, and literally.

Friends will be received at the Hill and Robinson Funeral Home and Cremation Centre, 30 Nelson St, on Wednesday November 20th from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. A Service of Remembrance will follow in the chapel at 1:00 p.m. Interment at Paris Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will take place at Juniper Dining Co. Paris following the interment. Cremation has already taken place.

Donations to the Progressive Nuclear Palsy Society, The Canadian Cancer Society or planting a tree are gratefully accepted.