William "Bill" Wilson
September 17, 1956 - January 2025
We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our loving father and husband, Bill Wilson. Much of his life was spent working to provide caring and supportive foster homes, including his own, for many years, to children with special needs. His work was a natural extension of his personal life as a determined advocate for his daughter Annie, who also lived with special needs. He sought a more just world by removing barriers and creating spaces where children of all abilities could thrive.
Born on September 17, 1956, in Markham, Ontario, Bill grew up around his father’s shoe store, where he learned the values of hard work and dedication that shaped his life. He acted from a deep sense of integrity and always stood up for what was right, even when it was difficult.
Bill had a wide range of skills and interests. In retirement, he reignited his passion for amateur radio, made long-distance friends, and built the perfect computer for his flight simulator hobby. A licensed pilot, he found freedom in the skies. Bill was an electronics expert, an RC flyer, and a lifelong Disney World fan, cherishing the magic it brought to his family. He traveled to places he dreamed of seeing and always enjoyed time with his grandchildren.
Bill is now reunited with his daughter Annie (1985–1997) and is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years, Hilda; his sons, Murray (Anne Berndl) and Chris (Oksana Fedan); his cherished grandchildren, Michelle, Liam, Lucy, Emily, Benjamin, and Sasha. He was eagerly awaiting the arrival of another grandson, due in May 2025. He is also survived by his younger brother George. Bill was predeceased by his parents, Kathleen and Robert “Murray” Wilson, and his older brother, Robert Haley Wilson (1953–2022).
Funeral Details:
Visitation: De Stefano Funeral Home, 1289 Keith Ross Drive, Oshawa, Ontario
Saturday, January 18, 2025: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Memorial Service: De Stefano Funeral Home Chapel
Saturday, January 18, 2025: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
For those unable to attend in person, the family invites you to view the service via Livestream by CLICKING HERE just prior to 1:00 PM on Saturday, January 18, 2025.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the Starlight Foundation would be sincerely appreciated by the family.
Bill’s legacy of love, advocacy, and warmth will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
