COOK, James William (Bill), CD, LCol(Ret’d), RCAF, Logistics-Supply
Bill passed peacefully with his family by his side on 18 July 2018, his 91st birthday. Predeceased by his first wife Margaret Christina MacIver (the mother of his children) and his wife Joan. Left to mourn are his son William (Bernadette), grandchildren Tracey (Corey) and Billy; son John (Jane), grandchildren Daniel (Lauren) and Maggie (both born of Lesley Small), and great-grandchildren Liam and Connor. Also survived by stepdaughter Jennifer (Barry) and their children Sara and Taylor.
Bill was born and grew up in Kirkland Lake, Ontario where he worked in the gold mines to put himself through McMaster University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts. He enrolled in the Royal Canadian Air Force as a supply officer, retiring as a lieutenant-colonel after twenty-five years service. He was most proud of his duty with the United Nations Emergency Force during Canada’s first peacekeeping mission, and his role as a member of the directing staff at the Canadian Forces College.
He continued serving his country after retirement from the military as a director with Public Works and Government Services Canada for ten years.
After many years as an avid curler, he switched to golf chasing elusive pars, staying fit and independent until late in life. He will be remembered for a strong work ethic, a keen sense of humour and a willingness to help others, always ready to lend a sympathetic ear and offer sage advice.
Friends and family are invited to pay respects and visit the Hall of Colours of the Beechwood National Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood Ave. Ottawa on Friday July 27, 2018 after 10 a.m. Memorial Service will be held in the Sacred Space at 11 a.m. followed by interment and reception. In lieu of flowers, the family is encouraging donations be made in memory of Bill to the charity of your choice.