BILL (PAPA) RAMAGE

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BILL (PAPA) RAMAGE

May 23, 1923 - January 20, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of William (Bill) Torrance Ramage of Burlington Ontario on Monday, January 20, 2025, in his 102nd year. Ever grateful, Bill would undoubtedly urge us to celebrate his long and fulfilling journey, fueled by a profound love for his family - the secret, he'd claim with a twinkle in his eye, was the fountain of his youth.

Bill is survived by his four children, David (Jocelyn) of Burlington ON, Stewart of Jasper AB, Sheila (Frank) of Ottawa ON, and Rob (Crista) of St Thomas ON. His legacy will live on through his grandchildren - Scott (Stephanie), Cheryl (Steve), Douglas (Heidi), Gordon (Annoncia), Robert (Michelle), Ailie (Eric), Ken, Noah (Jaclyn), Maya and Zac as well as four great-grandchildren - Finley, Vaughn, Raphael and Stella, and another great-granddaughter on the way. Bill was a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews across the country with special roots in Winnipeg, his birthplace.

Bill was predeceased by his beloved wife of 72 years, Freda (nee Huehn), his father William and his mother Gertrude (nee Palmer), his two brothers Jack (Eileen), Don (Joyce), and two sisters, Cay (Albert) and Margaret (Percy).

"Papa”, as his grandchildren and great-grandchildren affectionately called him, will be known as a gifted storyteller who recounted his youthful escapades with racing pigeons, and shared stories from his time overseas. Of course, they loved when he burst into one of his favourite Scottish songs and they’ll remember his infectious laugh, and the way he lit up with a huge grin whenever one of them entered the room. And when you asked, “How are you, Papa?” He’d respond with "I’m better now that you’re here!"

Fresh out of school, a young Bill was eager to serve his country in the Second World War and he joined the RCAF where he calibrated bomber aircraft instruments. He launched his career with Trans Canada Airlines (now Air Canada) in 1946. He was a natural leader who was loved and respected by his colleagues, and he relocated his young family to Pointe Claire, QC in 1961.

Life wasn't all work and no play for Bill. He and Freda embraced the Winnipeg social scene, dancing, playing cards, curling, and spending time at Sandy Hook. Later, in Pointe Claire, they built a community of neighbours where Bill’s warm nature and outgoing disposition forged some lifelong friendships over shared interests, laughter and great New Year’s Eve parties where Bill’s Scottish roots shone, while he belted out Harry Lauder tunes and entertained all.

Bill had a unique gift to lift the spirits of those around him. He was meticulous (sometimes too much so with dishwasher loading), a gifted carpenter in his spare time, and he liked to remind you to put a little soap on the screws. His thick auburn hair was a source of pride and playful teasing and kept people guessing if it was dyed. Bill was just naturally youthful, and he would tell you his secret to a long life was the love of his family, a grateful heart and, of course, a wee dram of scotch now and then. We will remember Bill (Papa) with the joy he brought into our world, and we will raise a glass to this proud Canadian in his honour - a fitting toast to a man who truly knew how to live.

Special thanks go to the team members at the Village of Tansley Woods Retirement Community for their loving care and support. We would also like to thank the Joseph Brant Hospital Staff on 5 North for their attention and care.

A Celebration of Life will take place in Burlington on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at 1:00 p.m., at SMITH'S FUNERAL HOME, 1167 Guelph Line (one stoplight north of the QEW), Burlington. Donations in lieu of flowers may be gifted to the Joseph Brant Hospital Foundation.  

www.smithsfh.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 25, 2025