William Michael Forsyth

William Michael Forsyth

William Forsyth Obituary

Published by Vancouver Sun from Aug. 11 to Aug. 13, 2007.

FORSYTH _ William (Bill) Michael born in Neepawa, Manitoba, October 15, 1947, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on August 7, 2007. Bill, pre-deceased by his father Morley, is survived by his beloved wife Janyce, his son Pierre, his mother Virginia, his twin brother Morley (Margot), brother Raymond (Jonathan), sister Barbara, sister-in-law Bev (Paul), sister-in-law Judy, his nieces Virginia (Paul), Kathryn, Sigourney, Genevieve, nephews John, Charlie, and Rhys, grand niece Sophie, grand nephews John Jr. (J.J.), Tobias and Leo. As a child Bill was a quiet boy, but nevertheless managed to attract a lot of attention with his twin brother Morley. From an early age and for the rest of his life Bill had a quick wit and a talent for fixing things. As a young man, Bill joined his father Morley and his brother Raymond in the family business (Forsyth Rentals and Equipment) selling and renting heavy machinery. Bill's organizational skills and his talent for troubleshooting and problem solving were key reasons why Forsyth Rentals grew into a very successful business. Later Bill and Ray worked together in a new business designing and manufacturing heavy equipment. Once again the new business achieved terrific success in large part because of Bill's skill and ability in managing difficult and complex operations. Bill was the bedrock upon which the family businesses were built. In his younger years Bill was an expert skier. He was an active participant in the lively apres ski culture at Whistler from the heady days of the resort town in the mid 1970's to the mid 1990's. Later, Bill became an avid boater and shared many happy times on the water with his wife Janyce and their son Pierre. Over the years Bill won the respect and friendship of his fellow boaters, in part because of his work as their amateur consultant on all manner of mechanical problems, but mostly because of his playful sense of humour, good nature and solid character. Bill was the proud father, friend and mentor to his son Pierre and soul-mate and loving husband to his wife Janyce. Together with his family (and his dog Nikki) Bill lived a life filled with love, happiness and laughter. Taken from us too soon, Bill will be remembered as a devoted son, father, husband and brother, quick to help his friends; someone who lifted our spirits and enriched our lives. A celebration of Bill's life will be held on Tuesday, August 14th from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club. Flowers are graciously declined. Donations to the BC Children's Hospital or Make-a-Wish Foundation in Bill's memory would be appreciated.

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August 6, 2012

Ross Woodhouse posted to the memorial.

February 14, 2012

Sharon Robinson posted to the memorial.

December 18, 2011

gayle robson posted to the memorial.

29 Entries

Ross Woodhouse

August 6, 2012

It has been a long time Billy, but we still think of you. I really miss our friendship. Just wanted you to know on this day August 6 2012.

Sharon Robinson

February 14, 2012

Bill, today we looked through Bruce's old school book...The Eyrie...'64-'65. You and Morley were at the same school as Bruce...we have the pictures for proof. Happy Valentines! Love, Sharon XO

gayle robson

December 18, 2011

still think about you, share great stories about you and miss you madly.

Remembering . . .

Love from Bev & Paul

August 8, 2010

Love from Bev & Paul

August 8, 2010

August 10, 2009

We go back a long time, Bill...the early '70's, North Vancouver. Some of my memories include horse riding and happy times, typing and train wrecks, suppers, stories and more stories and rose wine. I will remember you. Just wanted you to know, my son and new grandson share your name.
Love, Sharon
Maple Ridge (Whonnock) B.C.

Ross Woodhouse

August 22, 2008

It's over a year now but it seems like yesterday Bill. We still talk about you and the good times and we all miss you. I hope you are watchig down on us to make sure we behave, just as you would.

Rod & Gwen Dunbar

October 14, 2007

Although it has been a while since we lost you, we still miss you and wish you were here to lift us up with your "tall, but amusing stories". Started to write here many times but could not quite say good bye. Still can't ...so lets just say "Untill we meet again." Miss you. Rod & Gwen Dunbar

JANE ALDRICK

September 27, 2007

Dear Janyce

Just to say that I know how difficult it can be (as my mum used to say) "after the flowers died". Am thinking of you as you try to find some equilibrium...email or ring me any time hey?

Cindy Bubb

August 19, 2007

Janyce and Pierre

Thank you so much for sharing Bill with us. He managed to enrich our lives so much - he was always there with a smile, a joke and a helping hand.

I am so glad that he was able to see our new baot and to actually come with us on our first trip out of the shed - we must have been waiting for Marnier Bob.

We will miss him...

lots of love
Terry, Cindy, Terry Lea, and Lauren

Lesley & Ray Johanson

August 19, 2007

Janyce,Pierre & Forsyth family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. It's not the length of time on our journey through life, it's how you spend it. Cherish the memories, for that's what keeps our loved ones close.

Sydney Ribes

August 18, 2007

Janyce and Pierre,
I keep hearing the bagpipes in the streets of Edimburgh recently. I like to think now that they were playing for Bill.
You are all in my heart, safe and warm. Sydney

Victoria Gemmell

August 16, 2007

Dear Janyce and Pierre, My thoughts and prayers have been with you and Bill during the last sad weeks. Bev has told me of your enormous strength and gentle care of each other. I regret I was unable to be with you on Tuesday - I know it would have been memorable! With love, Victoria.

David & Penny & Family Thompson

August 14, 2007

Janyce, Pierre and the Forsyth Family...Thank you for sharing Bill with us. We have many very special memories of times spent with our wonderful friend. Love

August 14, 2007

Janyce and Pierre

Buffy and I are so very sorry for your devastating loss. We have been
with you in heart and spirit through the past weeks. We would like to
share a poem that has provided some comfort through our losses over the
years.

TO THOSE I LOVE and THOSE WHO LOVE ME

When I am gone, release me, let me go,
I have so many things to see and do.

You mustn't tie yourself to me with tears,
be thankful for our beautiful years.

I gave to you my love. You can only guess
how much you gave to me in happiness.

I thank you for the love you each have shown,
but now it's time I traveled alone.

So grieve a while for me, if grieve you must,
then let your grief be comforted by trust.
It's only for a time that we must part,
So bless the memories within your heart.

I won't be far away, for life goes on.
So if you need me, call and I will come.

Though you can't see or touch me, I'll be near,
and if you listen with your heart, you'll hear
all my love around you, soft and clear.

And then, when you must come this way alone,
I'll greet you with a smile, and say
"Welcome Home!”

With Love and Friendship
Buffy and Dee

Mariner Bob

Ross & Sue Woodhouse

August 13, 2007

You are my best friend and I already miss our time together. Thank you to the Forsyth family for allowing us to spend those last days with Bill. Wherever you are Billy, save us a spot so we can raft again together.

Tom & Monica Navarette

August 13, 2007

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. May you find comfort in all the wonderful memories you have of Bill. Love & Prayers

Gayle and Tony

August 13, 2007

We miss you already, Bill.
The seaward float will never be the same.
Love

Betty Davison

August 13, 2007

Mariner Bob....save a seat for us at the baileys and coffee bar. Thank you for sharing your life with us and being such a large part in it. We will miss you in so many ways...in thousands of grand ways! We will be there for Janyce and Pierre in any way that is needed...count on us like we were able to count on you! Love you! Miss you! See you in about 5000 boat days. Love Mike and Betty

Bruce & Janet Blair

August 13, 2007

Bill will always be in our hearts and memories. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Janyce, Pierre and family.

Dave Worth

August 13, 2007

It was a pleasure working with Bill on his office computer. Bill always saw the bright side despite the difficulties involved and had words of wisdom for me while I struggled to make things work.

Bill will always be in my heart. While I am unable to attend Bill's celebration of life please accept my regards to Janyce, Pierre and the Forsyth family.

Gord & Brenda Kleaman

August 13, 2007

Bill was an amazing man and we will sorely miss him. He was always there for anyone that needed help, tirelessly giving his support, expertise and time to help out a friend. Sometimes that help came as a practical joke, we will always remember the laughs that came along with Bill.

Janyce, Pierre, Virginia, Barbara, Raymond and Morely,our thoughts are with you, please let us know if we can ever be of help, or to just be there.

Billy 1981

Neil & Sue Anderson

August 13, 2007

BILL, FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS!
WILL MISS YOU BUDDY

JANE ALDRICK

August 12, 2007

Although I never met Bill, I have 'known' Janyce & Bev since our teens - whilst spending a year living in Vancouver in 1967. ~The White family welcomed me in a way I will NEVER forget. I hope, Janyce & Pierre, that my love and thoughts for you are as tangible to you (6000 miles away) as they are from here in the UK. Much love to you all, Jane

Larry and Jan Payne

August 12, 2007

We hope that peace in which Bill now rests will fill the hearts and minds of his family. Our love and prayers reach out to each of you.

Paul Atterton

August 12, 2007

To my friend and brother in law(BIL) Bill
Who was a man with an amazing skill,
He would start a debate and then conclude with a bet,
But due to the outcome would often forget.

My best wishes to Janyce and Pierre, Mrs. Forsyth and Raymond, Morley and Barbara, and to all the grandchildren. May God bless.

I'll miss his sense of humour and wit - may you all remain in good health.

Ursula Kerr

August 11, 2007

With great sorrow we regret the passing of Bill who was a neighbour and friend of ours in North Vancouver. We will miss him greatly and wish his family well. We cannot come to the service as we will be out of town. Sincerely

Ursula, Cam, C.J., Brad and Rose Connor.

Ann, John, Scott and Ryan Fowler

August 11, 2007

We always enjoyed Bill’s sense of humour—dry but thought-provoking—and his work ethic and generosity around our home in Cove Gardens. Bill always had a kind word or gesture for our children, and a giving heart.

We cannot attend your gathering as we are away, but our thoughts are with Janyce and Pierre. We will miss you, neighbour.

Fred and Linda Kirby

August 11, 2007

Bills,good nature,sense of humour and sincere friendship over the years,will be missed,by our family...our condolences to Janyce,Pierre and the Forsyth Family

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Not sure what to say?

August 6, 2012

Ross Woodhouse posted to the memorial.

February 14, 2012

Sharon Robinson posted to the memorial.

December 18, 2011

gayle robson posted to the memorial.