William (Bill) A. E. Canvin
August 16 1945 - June 1 2023
We are so very sad to share that our beloved husband, dad, and grandpa has passed away. This loss has left a huge hole in our hearts and lives.
Bill was born in Northampton, England and was the youngest of five siblings. He always had an adventurous streak, which took him to the gold mines of South Africa right after graduation then later to Canada with his wife Rosemary, young daughter Helen and of course Noggin, the first in a line of treasured family dogs.
Bill continued the adventures and opened one of the first neighborhood pubs in the province with Rosemary and John and Maureen Foster. From 1977 to 1980, they owned The Witch of Endor Neighborhood Pub in Maple Ridge (now Witchcraft), and then The Frog and Nightgown in Coquitlam from 1984 to 2004.
British Columbia held a special place in Bill's heart. He cherished spending time with his family, camping in many beautiful Provincial Parks. They started with a tent and eventually upgraded to a tent trailer, though parking it wasn't always a smooth ride—Helen's ears often had to be covered for that part. Bill had a true love for the outdoors and would often take long walks with his dogs in the trails and dykes nearby. Then in later years creating the most amazing outdoor spaces and garden at home.
He loved spending time with his family and friends. A great host, he warmly welcomed many, showcasing his knowledge of local history and earning himself the nickname of a walking encyclopedia. Over the years we were all so fortunate to spend time together at a family ‘cabin’ and in his beautiful home base in Maple Ridge. So many great memories to cherish.
He was absolutely devoted to his family, the most incredible husband, and a loving father and grandfather. Rosemary, his wife of 55 years, their daughter Helen, son in-law Mark, grandchildren Ryan and Jenna will forever cherish Bill's memory and everything he gave and taught them. He will also be dearly missed by his sister, Mary, brother Richard and his wife Hazel, sister-in-law Celia and her husband Les and numerous nieces and nephews in the UK and Australia.
Our loved four-legged family members Pepper and Marlie and Sage will also miss him terribly.
We want to say thank you to the amazing doctors and nurses at Ridge Meadows Hospital for taking such great care of Bill. Their kindness and dedication meant the world to us. We are also incredibly thankful to Dr. Hughes, Dr. Uh, Dr Telio, and our family doctor, Dr. Rusu, for providing Bill with excellent care for a rare combination of conditions. We couldn't have asked for better support.
Bill did not want a funeral but a celebration of his life. This will be held in the summer. If you would like to honor Bill's memory, we kindly ask if you could consider making a donation to the SPCA or the Canadian Cancer Society.
June 30th, 2023
How does one say goodbye to a close friend for decades? You recall all the good times together. The camping trips, the times at the cottages, the wonderful times at Gibson which became the place for New Years along with the Blakes and getting together at our homes for dinner and our laughs. Bill and and I got to know each other over the decades very well. we would meet up for a pint and discuss the world events of the day. He was very much a thoughtful man and loved his wife and family very much. Both of us liked history and Bill was a walking encyclopedia. He was a conservative man who took his success in his ownership of his pubs and was willing to share that knowledge. He also had a hidden sense of humor. We were at the cottage with Bill and Rosemary. Bill reminded us that if he started to dance we should put him to bed. He lit a campfire and we enjoyed an evening of wine and friendship. Well into evening my wife Sandi jumped up and said to Bill "Come on Bill, let's dance" . To my surprise Bill jumped up and they danced around and almost into the fire. That is how to remember man and I have thoughts every day with a smile
June 18th, 2023
One day in 1975, Maureen came home and told me about new neighbours up the street who it turned out had a wish to open a neighborhood pub as they had just been approved by the government. That was the start of a friendship which lasted through 3 pubs (103 mile doesn't count) and almost 60 years.
We could not have had better friends and business partners than Bill and Rosemary throughout the years.
Bill will always be in our thoughts and will be sorely missed by all.
June 13th, 2023
We are very sad to hear of Bill's passing. We remember with fondness the times we spent with Bill and his family not long after we immigrated to Canada and how Bill and Rosemary entertained Mike's parents on their visit to Coquitlam. We enjoyed our chats with Bill when he ran the Frog-N- nightgown which was our local.
June 12th, 2023
My husband Ray and myself, first met Bill in 1976, we had recently came from England, Bill and John knocked on our door
Asking us if we would support a pub to be built in Maple Ridge, Of course we said yes. Ray managed the pub.
I later worked behind the bar. We became great friends, Bill and Rosemary were great to work for, Bill had a great sense of humour, After they sold we remained good friends. Bill will be greatly missed. My heart goes out to Rosemary,
Helen and family. They were always together, rest in peace Bill. Love Janet
June 11th, 2023
My Uncle Bill...
I don't remember huge amounts from being a child but I can picture so many memories from our visit to Canada when I was only about 15. The fact I have such vivid memories tells me that the impact of this trip was so significant. You were an awesome uncle and gruncle. RIP Uncle Bill, much love, Sarah, Jim, Oscar and Evie xx
June 10th, 2023
Fond memories of an awesome brother-in-law, you’ll be forever in our hearts, Bill. Much love Hx
June 10th, 2023
Anyone who ever met this lovely man remembers his warmth and charm. He made the world a better place. Funny, kind, generous, caring, witty, wise…… there will surely never be another to match my truly marvellous brother. Farewell Bill, it’s been a pleasure - Dick
June 9th, 2023
Over the years I worked for Bill and Rosemary at the Witch of Endor and their beautiful home, plus I had the privilege of building the Frog and Nightgown.
Bill was the best kind of friend to Janet and myself, always willing to lend a helping hand, sharing his vast knowledge and ready for a laugh over a beer or wine.
Our thoughts and sympathy go out to Rosemary and family. Bill will be dearly missed and never forgotten.
June 8th, 2023
To say goodbye to a long-time, cherished friend has been terribly hard on my heart. To my amazing friend, Rosemary, Helen, Mark and the kids and Bill and Rosemary’s families, I send my sincere condolences. You will be forever missed, Bill, but rest assured, you did a bang up job while you were here. Now, my Johnny is waiting for you to join him for a pint and a catch up! Cheers my friend….love you xxxx
June 8th, 2023
Helen and Family,
I am deeply sorry for the loss of your Dad, husband and grandpa! May your memories of him help you through this difficult time. My thoughts are with you all!
Linda
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