Obituaries

BILLY YANCEY

A gentle hand came to take Billy away on Tuesday, March 24, 2015. It is with great sadness that we share the news that Billy passed away peacefully at Riverview Health Centre. He faced his illness with quiet dignity and courage. He will be sadly and lovingly missed by his devoted wife of 60 years, Jo.
Billy was the youngest of nine children and is predeceased by his parents and all his siblings. Left to mourn are his wife Jo, in-laws Eddie and Shirley (Shawn) in Regina, Art (Irene deceased), Christine and Dean (Steven and Matthew), Mike and Holly (Jordan) and Jim, all of Calgary. He is also survived by 10 nieces and nephews scattered across Canada, USA and Australia.
He was a great uncle and a good friend and neighbour. Those surviving him will miss our get-togethers, great talks and sharing our joys and tears. We will recount Billy?s stories and smile each time we remember him. He will always remain in our hearts as sorrow does not last forever but love does.
Billy was a natural athlete and sports played a large part in his life- from travelling across the USA playing in the AHL, to travelling across Canada as equipment manager first for the Calgary Stampeders, then with the Junior Jets. Upon retirement he would cycle 21 miles to Pine Ridge Golf Course to play 18 holes? first on the tee every morning. Unfortunately, later in life, Billy was diagnosed with Paget?s bone disease which curtailed his sporting activities.
He had an eye for antiques and fine objects and spent many hours at his hobby redesigning articles for our home. He appreciated good art and loved his collection of oil paintings and framed pictures that decorate our walls. A picture for every empty space!
Billy loved the sun! He was happiest when relaxing in the sun. He was a sun worshipper and was always in competition with his neighbours ? Tricia on one side and Charlie on the other ? to see who had the best tan. He was so happy in his flower filled yard, keeping his lawn green, neat and tidy, and waiting for the last leaf to fall so that he could scoop it up!
He greatly loved and cared for all animals. Especially dear to his heart were our four family dogs. He always had a tender spot for his neighbours? pets. Rabbits and squirrels were also welcome. They all gave him such joy.
Special thanks to Kelly and Dee Moss, Keith and Judy Elder and all our other friends and neighbours who helped us ? one step at a time- to get through this. I wish to express gratitude to Dr. S. Ahmed and Nurse Jennifer Konwalchuk for Billy?s care. Angels must guide you both in your work. To Drs. Coleman and Garcia and the nursing staff at Riverview Health Centre 3 East unit, thanks to all who looked after Billy with great care and gentleness. Your kindness and loving hands meant a lot to us. Your hard work did not go unnoticed and those surviving thank you so much. You truly are a great team.
At Billy?s request, cremation has taken place and there will be no service. No floral tributes please. If desired, donations may be made to Cancer Care or Riverview Health Centre.
Wojcik?s Funeral Chapel, 2157 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB in care of arrangements 204.897.4665. For those who wish to sign Wojcik?s online Guest Book please visit our website at www.wojciksfuneralchapel.com

Walk with me always,
Holding my hand.
Never let it go.