William Norman Willcocks

October 17th, 1941 – February 27, 2026

It is with great sadness that the family of William (Bill) Willcocks announce his passing on February 27, 2026. Peacefully, in his home, with family, at the age of 84. 

Born in Toronto, Bill was predeceased by his parents Norman and Agnes (Alcock) Willcocks. Brother to Marlene (Richard), Wayne (Diane) and John (Jocelyn). Predeceased by his sister Kathy (Carl) and nephew Kenny (son of John).

Bill was the devoted husband of Diane Willcocks (Hillock) for 46 years and they raised their family in Markham.

Cherished father of Pamela (Mike), Tracey (Tony), Jason (Karen), Sharon (Parthan), and Lauren (Steve).

Loving grandfather to Ciara, Nathan, Samantha (Colton), Alyssa, Anthony, Jackie, Kaylie, Diora, Avalon and Odin.

Reluctant, then devoted cat Dad of the Siamese blue points, Blue, Loki & Indy, and our beloved Buster who made our house his home.

Uncle and great-uncle to numerous nieces and nephews.

Godfather of Carrie Bews-Morton.

Brother-in-law to Debbie (Bill) Stone.        

Remembered by Lynda Williams, mother of Pam and Tracey.

Bill had a strong work ethic. At ten years old, he started his first job helping the milkman. In his youth he studied Chemical Engineering at Ryerson University, while working for Loblaws. He worked at International Waxes as a Chemist and ultimately spent many decades in management for Loblaw Co, both in stores and for head office in Health and Safety, Employee Development and Gross Profit.

Bill’s commitment to charity and community began as a Boy Scout.  This led to 40 years of service volunteering with the International Lions Club. In 1987 he became a charter member of the Scarborough Cedarbrae Lions Club.  The club later amalgamated with Scarborough Golden Mile to become Scarbrough Cedarbrae Golden Mile.  He also a long-standing member of the Agincourt Lions Club. 

Over the years Bill held many positions within the club.  Bill was president of the club for two terms (1987-1989), Zone Chair in District A7 for two terms (1997-1999), Region Chair in District A7 (1998-1999), Cabinet Secretary in District A7 (1999 – 2000), Vice District Governor in District A7 (2000 – 2001), Zone Chair B58 in District A711 (2010 – 2011), Region 58 Chair for two terms (2011-2013), 2nd Vice district Governor (2014-2015), 1st Vice District Governor (2015-2016), and District A711 Governor (2016-2017).  Bill held committee chairs in 2011 – 2012 as a Youth Exchange Chair, Effective Speaking Chair, and Youth Opportunities Chair.

Bill’s service was recognized over the years. He was honoured most recently in 2023 by receiving the Helen Keller Fellowship embodying the motto “service to others” and providing ‘light in the darkness’.  He was a recipient of the Melvin Jones Fellowship, the highest form of recognition from the Lions Club.

Bill enjoyed spending time with his family. Summers were spent in the backyard by the pool, grilling on the BBQ or up at Lake Kashwakamak at Woodcrest Resort Park camping with his family. His family cottage in Kirkfield on Canal Lake hold special memories for him.  Despite his many responsibilities he was always home for Sunday dinner.

A very special thank you to all of Bill’s doctors who were involved in his treatment the last five years.  Most notably, Drs. Singer and Nussbaum, Dr. Mateya Trinkaus, the staff at Markham Stouffville Hospital, and all the wonderful nurses and personal support workers who attended him at home in his final weeks. And of course long time family doctor, Dr. Ken Ng. 

Thank you to the many family members who helped during this time you know who you are.  A special thank you to long time friend Gary, who was always there.

Bill will be deeply missed, fondly remembered and cherished always.

A fighter until the end, a testament to his spirit and love of life.

Bye for now, to such a wonderful man.

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