William "Bill" Pearson

PEARSON, William "Bill" M.B.E. At the age of 94 Bill passed away peacefully on 14 Sept. in Merritt B.C. Bill was born in Victoria on 9 Nov. 1913. Predeceased by his loving wife Jessie, Bill is survived by his sons Greg [Nancy] and Norman [Heather], granddaughters Victoria, Theresa, Brittany and Deanna and grandson James. After pursuing a career in the trades Bill joined the Oak Bay Fire Department in 1938. His firefighting career was interrupted in 1939 when he joined the Royal Canadian Army Service Corp. Bill served overseas from 1940 to 1945 reaching the rank of WO2. Bill received the Order of the British Empire [MBE] for his invention of the jeep ambulance and was twice mentioned in dispatches. Upon his return to Canada he rejoined the fire department becoming Deputy Chief in 1950 and Chief in 1955 a post he held until 1974. Bill, a long time member of the Oak Bay Kiwanis, was instrumental in the construction of Oak Bays Fireman's Park and the Scout and Guide Halls located there. Bill was a regular at Cedar Hill Golf Club and a proud member of Royal Canadian Legion Britannia Branch. Bill was well known for his beautiful garden and for growing geraniums which he took great pride in sharing with his family and friends. The family would like to thank RAdm and Mrs Valda Yanow for their devotion to Uncle Bill", Joni Morris for the loving care she provided, CWO Bart Fuerwentges [Ret] for his friendship and to Don and the members of the legion who were always there for Bill. In honour of Bill's wishes there will be no ceremony. Donations may be made to the Salvation Army. 499882