With gratitude for a long life well lived, the family of Edwin William (Bill) Greaves announces his peaceful passing on Thursday, February 8, 2024.
Bill was born and raised in Port Arthur. He attended Port Arthur Collegiate Institute, McPhail College of Music and North Bay Normal School before beginning his teaching career. He touched the lives of many young people, sharing his gifts of music, athletics, humour and positivity. After many years teaching, he moved to sales. The unique combination of these two professional fields culminated in an administrative position at Confederation College. His role at Confederation College highlighted his natural skills in leadership, communication and connecting with people. He remained employed at the college until his retirement.
Bill was actively involved in the life of his community, sharing his passion for many things, particularly music. He was a Life Member of The Fort William Male Choir. Bill loved curling, travelling, discussing politics and world affairs -- and relished very hot saunas! After retirement, he spent winters in Puerto Vallarta, creating special memories with friends and family. Throughout his life, Bill brought many of his passions and skills to a variety of roles at Saint Michael and All Angels Church, a place that was very important to him and his family.
The eldest of five children – Billy, Betty, Buddy, Denny, and Carol Mavis – Bill grew up in a big, bustling, fun-loving family. His parents encouraged love, laughter, games, singing, and performing. Bill loved family, and was blessed to have two enduring loves in his life. He was married to Mary Elizabeth Bell on December 22, 1954, until her death in 1995. Bill met his wife, Shirley Keegan at St. Michael’s Church and they were married on June 14, 1996. The love they had for each other truly blended their families, and has enriched all of their lives.
Bill is survived by his wife Shirley, three children: Bill Greaves Jr. (Dawn), Susan Oksanen Porlier (David), and Sandra Greaves; two stepchildren: Susan Simpson (Evan) and Jeff Keegan (Joanne); fourteen grandchildren, and twenty-two great grandchildren. He is also survived by siblings: Betty McKenney (Frank), Bud Greaves (Gen), Denny Greaves (Mair), and Carol Neff (Rob). Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and other family members also survive.
Bill was predeceased by his parents, Edwin and Aune Greaves, first wife Mary Greaves, and son in law Dennis Oksanen.
The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 16, 2024 at Saint Michael and All Angels Anglican Church with Rev. Nancy Ringham officiating. There will be a livestream of the funeral service accessible through Saint Michael and All Angels Thunder Bay Facebook or YouTube. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 15, 2024 at Sargent & Son Funeral home. Interment of ashes will be at Saint Michael and All Angels Memorial Garden at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you sing a song, tell a silly joke, and hug the ones you love. Memorial donations be given to the Children’s Wish Foundation, Saint Michael and All Angels Anglican Church – Helping Hands School Project, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF Canada), Autism Ontario, or a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be expressed at www.sargentandson.com.
