William Willan

William Garfield Willan, 70 years, of Nipigon, Ontario passed away Tuesday, February 28, 2012 in the Nipigon District Memorial Hospital, Nipigon, Ontario. As a young man Bill had a passion for the game of hockey. He started playing minor hockey in Nipigon, then moved on to play Junior A in Thunder Bay for the Fort William Hurricanes. In 1960 he was signed by the New York Rangers and went on to play minor pro with the New York Rovers and the Des Moines Oak Leafs of the USHL, finishing with the Saint Paul Saints of the IHL. Returning home Bill married Nina Boholij in 1965 and together they raised two boys. He was employed at Norampac for thirty-five years, retiring in 2004. He enjoyed the game of hockey for most of his life playing oldtimers with long-time friends. Later on golf was his past time. Bill was a long-time member of the North Shore Golf Club and spent many days perfecting his game but would admit he was a better hockey player. Predeceased by his parents - Martha and Grant Willan, by his wife Nina, by two brothers - Barry and Curtis and by his father-in-law Fred Boholij; he is survived by two sons - William Jr. (& Keri) Willan and Christopher (& Lesley) Willan both of Nipigon, by his four grandchildren - Noah, Joel, Ally and Kayla, by his mother-in-law Kathy Boholij of Nipigon and brother and sisters-in-law - Sharon Willan of Terrace Bay, Ontario, Yvonne Willan of Nipigon, Nick (& Debbie) Boholij of Gimley, Manitoba, and Julia (& Robert) West of Ladysmith, British Columbia. Numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives also survive. According to Bill's wishes cremation has taken place. A private family service will be held at a later date. Friends so wishing may make donations to the Nipigon District Memorial Hospital. Arrangements are in the care of Elliott Funeral Home Ltd., Nipigon."