It is with sadness we announce Bill’s passing at 82 with his family at his side on August 31st, 2025. Bill was born in Ottawa on March 12, 1943. Shortly after his birth, his father enlisted in the military and served in WW2, so Bill and his mother moved to Perth, Ontario to be close to relatives.
Bill was predeceased by his parents William and Hildred (Cannon). He is survived by his husband John Mitchell, son Craig, grandchildren Ruby, Finn and Charley, brother Brian (Suzanne), sister Colleen (Stewart Evans), and their families.
Bill enjoyed a career mixed with work and travel. As court reporter, his work enabled him to travel to all ten provinces and two territories, Europe and the Bahamas. At the beginning and end of his career, he was employed by the House of Commons in both Hansard and committees.
Cremation has taken place. Family and friends are invited to Beechwood National Memorial Center (280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa, ON), for a Visitation on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, from 11a.m. until the time of the Memorial Service at 1 p.m., Interment and Reception to follow. Donations may be made to the Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre or the University of Ottawa Heart Institute.
Digital Guestbook
Paul Miner and Ross Cormack
Louise & Bob Potvin
We are sorry to hear of the passing of our good friend and neighbour. Bill with his pleasant personality was a treasure to us. Our condolences to John and family.
Gwen Ely
I wish you could stay longer, Bill. You were a great guy and we all loved you. My condolences to John and family.
Paul Martin
Sincere condolences to you Brian and the family. You often talked about your good times with your brother Bill. May he Rest In Peace.
Paul & Hélène
Aline Fournier
Rest in peace Bill. My deepest condolences to Brian and the family and friends.
Helene Studzinski
I have known Bill and John for many years and shared wonderful memories. I always enjoyed to hear of their great adventures. Tax time will never be the same. Rest in peace Bill. You will be missed immensely. My deepest condolences to you John. My thoughts are with you now.
Dale Burke
So sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. I’ve known and worked with Bill for many years at Hansard. He was as great guy and he will be truly missed. My deepest sympathy to John and the rest of the family.
Estelle & Sylvain Fontaine
Our sincere condolences to all Family.
Estelle & Sylvain Fontaine
Gwen Ely
Wish you could have stayed longer, Bill. You were a joy to know for all of us.
Liz Levere
Bill was the best! He was a true gentleman, kind, caring, thoughtful of others, and full of wit and charm. I knew Bill for over 25 years. We were colleagues at the House of Commons and the best of friends. I will miss our lunches together and our long chats on the phone. We had great times riding around Ottawa in his spiffy red convertible. It reminded both of us of our younger days! What fun that was! Bill was my best friend. My heart is broken now. I will truly miss him. My most sincere condolences to John. He and Bill were great together. My condolences also to Bill's son Craig and Bill's brother and sister. Bill had many friends. He will be missed by all.
Liz Levere
Our sincere condolences John. RIP Bill