William (Bill) Lester Cahill

Bill was born in L’Ardoise on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia; the last of eleven children.  He moved to Montreal after high school for work which eventually transferred him to Vancouver.  While in Vancouver he followed his childhood dream of becoming a teacher, and in 1971, he graduated from U.B.C. with a Bachelor of Education.  He taught in the Vancouver School District for 28 years retiring from Sir Winston Churchill as a French teacher.  He was first a family man and was energized by volunteering countless hours on numerous Catholic committees and boards.  He was a parishioner at St. Francis de Sales in Burnaby for 54 years and during his 64 years as a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, he held various positions most notably as State Deputy and Vice Supreme Master.  He is a Past Grand Knight of Vancouver Council #1081 and Charter Grand Knight of St. Francis de Sales Council #8853.  He was involved with the Cursillo movement and treasured the friendships made as well.  He excitedly gathered with former colleagues to lunch regularly after retirement.  He recognized he was fortunate to enjoy 29 years of retirement:  snow birding, cruising, and visiting out of town family and friends.

Bill is survived by his wife Bette of 57 years, daughter Carmen, son Michael (Cristina), grandchildren: Caitlin and Tyler, his sister Mary, and brother-in-law Phil as well as many nieces and nephews.  He is predeceased by his parents:  William Sr. and Julia.  Two brothers, Henry and Patrick, were killed in action during The Second World War, and whom he often wondered about.  He is also predeceased by siblings:  Ambrose, Anne (Allan), James (Sadie), Beulah (Roy), Catherine (Harvey), Alice and Margaret.

Bill’s faith sustained him during his many health issues over the years, and he passed away peacefully in the presence of his family.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association or the Heart & Stroke Foundation.

Here is the video link: https://youtu.be/cslmU6ZHQoQ