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WILLIAM MCKAY
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WILLIAM MCKAY Obituary
Bill McKay, a lifelong resident of Thunder Bay, passed away peacefully at Thunder Bay Regional Hospital on March 18, 2026, in his 79th year with family by his side.
Bill's life was one well lived - full of pride, humour, and deep love for his family and the outdoors. Though his time with us feels far too short, those who knew him will remember a man who found true happiness in the simple and meaningful things in life.
In his early career, Bill worked with the Thunder Bay Assessment Office, where he made lifelong friends however, being in an office wasn't for him, it was the outdoors where he felt most at home. This lead to a career change. He spent several years working alongside his father, Clifford McKay, as a lighthouse keeping assistant on Point Porphyry - an experience he cherished. He then became a second-generation commercial fisherman, and successfully operated McKay Fisheries from his Pass Lake residence alongside his life partner, Janet, carrying on a family tradition he deeply valued.
As long as he was near Lake Superior, Bill was happiest. This is where he spent the majority of his time, at his 'little piece of paradise'.
Above all else, Bill was a devoted family man. He is lovingly remembered by his children, Michael, Patricia (Shawna), and Ashley (Neil Dark), who held a special place in his heart. His love for Ashley was unwavering, and she brought him immense happiness throughout his life.
Bill will also be deeply missed by his dear sister and friend Laurie (Gerry Bloom) and lovingly remembered by his grandchildren, great-grand children, nieces, and nephews and extended family. He leaves behind many treasured friendships, including his close friends Morris, Jerry, Donna and Tim, Percy, Ingrid, and too many more to list if you had coffee, dinner or phone call chats with him you know who you are.
He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Janet Mascarin and parents Clifford and Frances McKay.
Cremation has taken place, as per Bill's wishes no service will be held. He didn't even want this obituary.
If so desired, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Grace Place.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for WILLIAM MCKAY
Sponsored by Northwest Funeral Alternative.
6 Entries
Gina McKay-Roger´s
Earlier today
Our deepest sympathy to Ashley and family. I just ran into Bill a few months ago.
Dan & Gina
Thomas Terlosky
Yesterday
My condolences to Bill's family . Bill will always be " Skipper " to me . The years working the herring run with Bill are some of my fondest memories Whether it was fair skies or gale force winds it was always a pleasure. Rest easy Skipper.
Lois Nuttall
March 21, 2026
I was shocked to hear of Bill's passing as we just had a brief but lovely conversation at K&A's while we were both getting some gas. Bill loved the 'lake' as Dave and I do and was always so friendly whenever we met him over the years. He was kind and generous with his time and always seemed happy with his life. Our condolences to all of his family.
Gary Muloin
March 21, 2026
Sincere condolences to the McKay family. I was fortunate to meet Bill and Janet when I was a kid, as my parents often visited the McKay family in Pass Lake. Bill took us out to check nets a couple times, which was a great experience for me. Rest in peace Bill.
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Bill Skrepichuk
March 21, 2026
Deepest condolences to the McKay family on your loss and our loss of Bill and his honest stories of Lake Superior. It was a gift to get to know Bill in the last few years through the history of his wife Janet, my grade school friend, and through Bill's recordings of Commercial fishing and McKay family stories and ancestry journey. Valued rare stories like beach combing for pulp logs, visiting outpost fishing families, lighthouse operations, processing Herring roe, fishing rewards and sorrows are included in his legacy. It was a real honor and privilege to know him. May he rest in peace.
Sherry and Bill Backen
March 21, 2026
Our deepest condolences to Ashley, and family. Bill was a true gentleman, and just an all around great guy. he will be sadly missed by so many.
Sherry and Bill
Backen
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for WILLIAM MCKAY
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Northwest Funeral Alternative428 Balmoral Street, Thunder Bay, ON P7C 5G8