Bill was a man who truly embodied the spirit of laughter, love, and relentless service. Bill’s journey of life came to a peaceful close, surrounded by the love of his family after a valiant bout with lung cancer on Thursday, September 19, 2024 at St. Joseph’s Hospice.
Born on February 12, 1948 in Fort William, Ontario. Education was a flame that Bill kindled throughout his life, starting with his time at Firefighter College in Gravenhurst. His role with the Thunder Bay Fire Department led him to his true calling. A role that filled him with immense pride far beyond his 33 years of service. He worked his way up in the department, right until his retirement in 2004 from his role as Platoon Chief. He often regaled anyone who would listen to the stories, both harrowing and hilarious, from his time in service. The camaraderie and brotherhood with his fellow firefighters was a source of joy that carried him throughout his life, most recently by joining the Masonic Shuniah Lodge No. 287.
Outside of work, Bill was a man of action. His efforts with Camp Duncan’s fundraising helped to upgrade the electrical systems and renovate the cabins, both inside and out. He also organized and worked countless church yard sales, making his commitment to community evident. He was the go to BBQ man at church events, Bill knew how to serve up a perfect hot dog or smokie with a flawlessly timed joke. Bill’s generosity shone through with his volunteering, particularly in his role as chairperson for Church fundraising efforts, and with Toys for Tots. His dedication to family was unmatched, especially in moving his mother from Toronto to ensure her comfort and happiness in her later years.
Bill’s hands were rarely still. He was a master of woodworking, from creating buildings, to birdhouses, sandboxes, and everything in between. His garage was his sanctuary, a place where he turned raw materials into treasures for his family and friends. His love of country music, particularly the tunes of Willie Nelson, was only matched by his passion for fishing with his best-friend, Marvin, especially during the firefighter tournaments. He was someone who knew how to enjoy life. Whether that was playing cards, participating in a hockey pool, or soaking in a play at Magnus Theatre. Bill loved to travel the world. At a young age, he did his travelling alone. Until he met the best travel partner, his wife Teri. The two would spend the cold months on beaches in Mexico and Florida or on a cruise of the Caribbean.
Funny, loving, kind, and friendly, Bill was the kind of man who could light up a room with his humour, warmth, and laughter. He lived by the motto “laughter is the best medicine” and his life was a testament to the power of a smile and strength of a generous heart.
Bill knew the dance of life, juggling joy, grief, and challenges with a grace that made it look effortless. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and community that is richer for his presence.
He is survived by his wife and one true love, Teri Lynch; his adoring mother, Ada; and his children, Shelley (Pat) Zary, Kristin (Kory) Kerekes and James Fikis, Mark Porter (Joanna), Megan Porter (Derrick). Being a dad came naturally to him. He was so very proud and loved to talk about his family, especially his 18 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.
Predeceased by his daughters, Kelly Trylinski, and Kimberly Patkau-Lynch, whom he held precious memories of in his heart; his father, William; and close lifelong friends Gerry Kingsborough and Eric Warren, who were no doubt waiting to share a laugh and game of cards with him on the other side.
Our beloved Bill may have left the stage of life, but his encore will resonate in our hearts forever.
A special thank you to St. Joseph’s Hospice, the nursing staff, and Dr. Andrew Migay. Your care and compassion was above and beyond.
Funeral services in honour of Bill will be held beginning at 1:30pm on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 in St. Paul’s United Church – 349 Waverley St.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bill Lynch Memorial Fund through the Masonic Shuniah Lodge No. 287, with proceeds going to Camp Quality and Camp Duncan or to Toys for Tots.
Online condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
