Obituary of William Close

CLOSE, William Robert (Bill) Passed away at the age of 91 on November 29, 2016 at the Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto, after a brief battle with cancer. Born in Westmount, Québec, Bill studied chemistry at McGill University. His career included time at Firestone in Akron, Ohio, and General Electric and BASF in Montréal before retiring in Markham where his deep-rooted sense of curiosity kept him reading, learning and discovering. Everyone who knew Bill witnessed his deep devotion to his wife of 63 years, Eleanor Jean Close (née Ruddick). He will be profoundly missed by Jean and by his children Andrew (Helen) and Robert (Nancy), his grandchildren Justin, Jeff, Ellen, Heather and Patrick, his great-grandchild Maggie and fond extended family. Bill was predeceased by beloved daughter Nicole and sisters Margaret and Jan. His family holds on to their many memories of him as a wonderful husband, father, grand- and great-grandfather, whose warmth, humour and caring enriched all of their lives. Visitation will be held at DIXON-GARLAND FUNERAL HOME, 166 Main St. N. (Markham Rd.), Markham on Monday, December 5, 2016 from 11am until 12pm. A Memorial Service will be held at 12pm in the Chapel. Online condolences may be sent through www.dixongarland.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.