It is with great love and sadness that we announce the passing of William “Bill” Joseph O’Rourke, who passed away peacefully on October 11, 2025, in Kelowna, British Columbia. Born on April 16, 1940, in Newbridge, Newfoundland, Bill lived a full, generous, and extraordinary life defined by integrity, quiet humour, and devotion to those he loved.
Bill will be dearly missed by his three children, Darlene (Andrew), Billy (Peggy), and Darren (Natalia); and his cherished grandchildren, Ashley, Jasmine, Danielle, Callie, Jacqueline, Shane, Sam, Steven, Kaelen, and Pierce; and daughter-in-law Jenn (mother of Kaelen and Pierce). His great-grandchildren, Elio, Arya, Zoey, Isabella, Payton, and Edison, brought him immense joy, as did his many nieces, nephews, and extended family across Canada.
He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Edna (née Ambrose); son Shawn Patrick; and his parents, Bernard and Mary (née Gushue) O’Rourke. Bill was also predeceased by his sisters Anastasia, Patricia, and Sharon, and brothers Bernard and Michael. He is lovingly remembered by his living brothers Brian (Donna) and Gerry (Shirley).
Bill left Newfoundland at a young age and proudly joined the Royal Canadian Air Force, serving from 1958 to 1968, where he began working on aircraft – a passion that would shape the course of his professional life. Following his service, he continued his career in aviation with CP Air, Canadian Airlines, and ultimately Air Canada, where he worked for over four decades before his well-earned retirement.
Beyond his career, Bill lived life with gratitude and quiet purpose. He loved golf, cheered faithfully for the Montreal Canadiens and then his Vancouver Canucks, and was an avid reader with a sharp and subtle wit. He found great joy in spending time with friends at his favourite local spots, where laughter and good company were always part of the day. Bill had a rare gift for mentoring others – encouraging them to better themselves through both life experience and learning.
He adored his grandchildren deeply and never missed an opportunity to share wisdom, stories, or a well-timed joke. His warmth, humour, and kindness touched everyone he met.
This Thanksgiving, as we gather in reflection, we give thanks for the life and gift of William – a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and friend. His memory will forever remind us that a good life is not measured by wealth or titles, but by love freely given and moments deeply lived.
