William (Bill) Milton Van Every of Gore Bay passed away peacefully with family by his side on Sunday, October 4, 2015 in his 93rd year. Beloved husband of Pauline (Cranston). They made their home together in Gore Bay for 30 years. He was predeceased by his first wife Dorothy and son Bill (Jr.) and is survived by their daughter Dolores and many grandchildren. Bill was the oldest son of John and Elizabeth (Clarke) Van Every. He will be sadly missed by his sister Helen Clarke (Tom predeceased) and brothers Dale (Joan) and Don (Rose) and sister-in-law Helen. He was predeceased by his sisters Blanche and Maude (Matt) and brothers Clarke (Shirley) and Jim. Over his 30 years of marriage to Pauline, her family became his family. He will be greatly missed by his step-family Peggy (Jim predeceased), Bonnie (Dave), Robbie (Judy), and Art (predeceased) (Marilyn) and their children and grandchildren. He will also be remembered by his brothers and sisters-in-law Bob (Doris) Cranston, Mike (Shirley) Cranston, Wilemine (Bob) Fishwick and Nan (Wendell) Buie. Bill is also survived by many nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly. Bill grew up in Meldrum Bay, saw the world as a young man serving his country in World War II, made his living as a steelworker in Hamilton and, in retirement, returned to Manitoulin Island where he pursued many passions. He became an award winning maple syrup maker, never saw a cribbage board he didn’t like, counselled many a young hunter from the comforts of the hunt camp, and was always a proud veteran. Bill was a renowned storyteller who always enjoyed a social visit, a good game on TV, and a cold beer with family and friends. Visitation and funeral was held at Simpson Funeral Home, Gore Bay. Visitation was on Wednesday, October 7, 2015 from 7 pm to 9 pm and funeral service was on Thursday, October 8, 2015 at 11 am. Interment to follow at Grimesthorpe Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to St. Andrew’s United Church, Meldrum Bay or the Gore Bay Medical Centre as expressions of sympathy.
