McGEE, Father William Joseph - A faithful and dedicated priest of the Archdiocese of Kingston for over 67 years, died at Providence Manor, Kingston on October 13, 2015, in his 93rd year.
Son of Clinton and Justina (Murray) McGee, Fr. Bill was born on May 31, 1923 in Stirling, Ontario.
His brothers and sisters, all deceased, were Murray McGee (Ruth Devlin), Clinton McGee (Mabel McCarthy), Bernadette Shannon (Tom Shannon) and Betty McGee.
His nieces, nephews and their children loved and honoured him over many years, and he maintained a keen and loving interest in all of them.
In his priestly life, he was known for his open, ecumenical approach, his firm principles, and his compassionate care and counselling. He initiated many spiritual programs, such as Renew , and was proud of the leadership of the laity in all his parishes.
Fr. Bill served in the parishes of St. John's, Kingston; St. Peter's, Trenton; St. Michaels and St. Josephs, Belleville; St. Columbanus, Elgin; St. John's and St. Joseph's, Kingston. His last assignment was as Pastor at Our Lady of Lourdes, Kingston. He taught at Nicholson Catholic College, Belleville from 1955-64 and served as Chaplain for 7 years at Kingston Penitentiary, the Prison for Women, and Millhaven Penitentiary.
In recent years, his good work was celebrated at a reunion and banquet honouring the founding members of Nicholson Catholic College. In 2013, Our Lady of Lourdes Parish marked his 65th anniversary as a priest with a lovely reception. A gifted athlete and coach, Fr. Bill maintained close friendships with his skiing partners, Dr. and Mrs. Bruce Cronk, and Mr. and Mrs. Don Leslie.
His love for his dogs was well known among his parishioners. Superdog often appeared after Sunday Mass to the delight of all the children. Fr. Bill's intellectual life was nourished by his extensive reading; and he also loved a good debate. He was grateful to the successive Archbishops and to all his friends in the clergy for their friendship and support throughout his priestly life and during his long illness.
Four dear friends, Rachelle Chauvin, Bill Little, and Ken and Sandra Torgensen must be thanked for their endless kindness and care. The staff and volunteers of Kingston General and St. Marys of the Lake Hospitals and Providence Manor must also be especially thanked.
Our gratitude is extended to Fr. Brian McNally for his gracious help with funeral arrangements. Fr. Bill will be remembered for his keen intellect, his patience in illness, his deep faith, and his generous spirit.
Funeral arrangements are: Visitation, Saturday, October 17th from 2 - 4 pm, James Reid Funeral Home, 1900 John Counter Blvd., Kingston, Ontario.
Lying in state at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 490 Days Rd., Kingston, on Sunday, October 18th, with visitation from 2 - 4:30 pm and Vigil Service at 4 pm.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in the church on Monday, October 19th at 11 am. Interment at a later date.
May Father Bill rest in the peace and joy of the Risen Lord.
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