REV. BILL MCLEOD

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REV. BILL MCLEOD Greatly missed by his family but now rejoicing in the presence of His Saviour, Rev. Wilbert Bill Laing McLeod died Saturday, July 28, 2012, after a brief illness at Seven Oaks Hospital, Winnipeg, in his 94th year. Dearly loved husband of Barbara McLeod (nee Robinson) for over 70 years; loving father of Judith Hay (Dan), Winnipeg, MB; Lois Churchill (Winston), Airdrie, AB; Joanna Shaule (Darrell), Lucan, ON; Timothy McLeod (Annette), Kamloops, BC and Naomi McLeod, Toronto, ON. Dearest Grandpa of 19 grandchildren and 37 great-grandchildren, plus many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents, a daughter Ruth, and three brothers. Bill was born in Winnipeg and invited Jesus into his life at the age of 22. This life-changing experience became his impetus for life and ministry. Bill's first pastorate was at a small church in Rosthern, Saskatchewan, following which he moved on to become a circuit pastor at Strathclair, Burdette, Shoal Lake and Birtle. In 1945, Bill joined the Shantymen's Christian Association where he ministered in logging camps until 1953. At that time God led Bill to begin the Tabor Baptist Chapel in Transcona. Bill also served a brief stint as the district superintendent of 40 churches scattered over 1000 miles. In 1962, Bill began ministry at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Saskatoon, where he remained until God led him into full-time revival ministry 10 years later. As a member of Canadian Revival Fellowship, and more recently Life Action Ministry, Bill traveled in Canada and abroad for many years, challenging believers to a deeper walk with God. Though unable to travel extensively in recent years, Bill continued to welcome ministry opportunities in and around Winnipeg. Throughout the years, he established and directed several Bible camps including Bird River Bible Camp in Manitoba and Nemieben Lake Wilderness Camp in Saskatchewan. Bill will be remembered for his knowledge of the Scriptures, a faith-filled prayer life, powerful Scripture-centered preaching, love for his family and friends and the outdoors. Viewing for family and friends will be held Monday, August 6 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Friends Funeral Service, 2146 Main Street, Winnipeg (204-339-5555). A private family interment will take place at Chapel Lawn Cemetery, Winnipeg. A Celebration of Pastor Bill's life will be held at Grant Memorial Church, 877 Wilkes Ave., Winnipeg on Tuesday, August 7 at 1:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Trans World Radio (Box 25324, London, Ontario N6C 6B1) or to a Mission Agency of your choice. Personal condolences may be forwarded to the family at http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/billmcleod.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 04, 2012