WELSH, William Ralph

"A gentle touch, a spirited heart and the love of camaraderie, as well as always available to help lend a hand or give advice. His guiding light will always shine"

It is with great sadness that the family of the late William Ralph Welsh, 78, of Hebbville, announces his passing on Sunday, February 13, 2022, at home. Born in Bridgewater, he was the son of the late Edwin and Thelma (Conrad) Welsh.

After the passing of his mother, Bill and his father moved from Lunenburg, Nova Scotia to the small fishing community of Pool's Cove, Newfoundland when he was a young boy.

During his boyhood years he enjoyed growing up in rural Newfoundland and talked of his adventures often. His greatest memories were hunting, fishing, and exploring the land. Newfoundland will always be in his heart.

Bill left his boyhood home and joined the military at 17. Upon entering the Canadian Army, he was posted to Germany for a period of three years. After such time, Bill released from the military and began his career in the fishing industry. Being an avid sailor for many years, he then turned his sights to the offshore oil industry being a crane operator until the east coast oil industry came to a major decline and shutdown. Bill then turned his sights to fishing again and moved to British Columbia.

Upon suffering a major stroke while employed in the fishing industry in BC, Bill uprooted from BC and moved to Petawawa, Ontario to be closer with his son. At this time Bill took a genuine interest in woodworking and became the president of the wood hobby shop at CFB Petawawa. He was voted in as the president of the auto hobby shop at the base also. His love for woodworking and auto mechanics always showed when he lent a helping hand. During this time, Bill also dedicated his time to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch # 517 in Petawawa Ontario.

Bill returned to the area in 2018 to reside in Hebbville with his son. He was also a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch # 24, Bridgewater.

He was the last surviving member of his immediate family.

Bill is survived by his wife, Zita Marjorie, son, Michael Edwin (Karli Hoover), Hebbville and two grandchildren, Zachary Orion and Summer Rose.

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by a son, Craig Louis.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Dana L. Sweeny Funeral Home, Lunenburg. A memorial service to celebrate Bill’s life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Poppy Fund of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch # 24, Bridgewater.