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University of Oregon

William Bennest Obituary

Published by Vancouver Sun and/or The Province on Jul. 25, 2015.

William Bennest January 30, 1944 - July 20, 2015 Bill is survived by his family and many close friends who appreciated his spirit and good nature. He was a kind and generous son, brother, uncle and true friend. Bill was talented in music, art, and athletics. He graduated from SOHS in 1962, and received his higher education from UBC and the University of Oregon. Bill was a member of the Vancouver Mens' Chorus and served on the organizing committee for the Vancouver Gay Games. Also, Bill was a high level coach with the Vancouver Amateur Swim Club, and competed in volleyball and swimming. In his retirement, Bill spent much of his time in Mexico. Thank you to the staff of the Malaspina Garden Care Home for their excellent care of Bill. Positive, charming, and a fun loving person was Bill. This is how his friends and family will remember him. He was loved and cared for by many, and "Billy" will be dearly missed. A celebration of his life will be held in Vancouver at a later date.

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Recent Activity

August 30, 2015

Josie Padro posted to the memorial.

August 29, 2015

Diana Denny posted to the memorial.

July 27, 2015

Bill Bryan posted to the memorial.

13 Entries

Josie Padro

August 30, 2015

So sorry to hear this news. Bill was my coach when I swam for Vancouver Parks in the early 70s. Bill was kind, encouraging and really made a positive difference in my life. I would like to attend his memorial service.

Robin and Diana with 'Aries' at Pride Victoria, '15

Diana Denny

August 29, 2015

I grew up with Billy in Oliver, our wonderful little B.C. town with the greatest school. We were always in music together and Sunday school & church, where he was a 'server' while I was in the choir, always thinking it was unfair that the boys did the 'server' job. He had a BEAUTIFUL 'boy soprano' voice which I envied too! It is difficult to realize he has left us.
I send love and condolences to his brothers, all of whom I also know, and his extended family as well who will miss him terribly.
Diana (Bertram) Denny.

Bill Bryan

July 27, 2015

Bill was one of my swim coaches in my youth at Renfrew Pool. He was a very fine gentleman. He will be missed.

Stephen Wahl

July 26, 2015

Bill was a fantastic grade 7 teacher and I was fortunate enough to be part of a group of students that he would take to Whistler on occasion for a ski trip. He was a wonderful role model for me not only in my formative years but also later in life. He will be missed greatly.

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Mount Pleasant Pool 1972

John Platzner

July 26, 2015

Bill. To a great coach and friend. Taught me how to drive ( 73 VW ) in addition to swimming,coaching and helped me get a job as a life guard, which helped me get a career with the VFD. You will be missed by the people that you tirelessly helped to achieve there goals. Thank you for your friendship. JP.

Enjoying the day on Vallarta Adventure's Sailboat

Don Stone

July 25, 2015

You are truly missed Billy B! With me moving to Ont, it was always a pleasure to see you when in PV. Thank you for allowing me to be a friend.

Eddie Matsuda

July 25, 2015

Thanks Billy for being part of my life. You gave me so many great memories over the years including a drag name "Mitzi" ...with sadness

Scot Matheson

July 25, 2015

Bill was a fine man and in his later years would meet with Mark and I for a few walks with the dogs. Always kind and a true loving spirit.

Mark Mees

July 25, 2015

Bill was a great friend and mentor to me. You are greatly missed but your light burns brightly with me and so many others.

David de Lusignan

July 25, 2015

Oh Billy B we will all miss you so much!
So many great times over the years with Billy A and many other great friends. Your spirit was so bright and will not be forgotten. Gods speed my friend. Love David D

Betty Burrell

July 25, 2015

Bill was my friend. We met at SOHS in 1960; were at UBC together; shared our first airplane flight and train ride; and in later years even shared a dog, Tehua. I last saw him on May 21/15 when we shared a picnic at his Care Home. His last few years were tough but he maintained his wonderful smile. I will miss him.

Rory Roberts

July 25, 2015

We met Billy B on many occasions in Puerto Vallarta. He was a true, kind and fun loving friend. He is sorely missed. Janet & Rory

Diane McQuade nee Murray

July 25, 2015

Coach Bill was a funny, caring swim coach. He was the type of person that made you want to succeed. I have thought of him often over the years and I hope he is at peace.

Diane McQuade (Murray)

Showing 1 - 13 of 13 results