New Waterford
It is with great sadness that we, the family announce the passing of Willard Ignatuis Williams, on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at Maple Hill Manor, New Waterford, surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Smelt Brook, on February 5, 1934, Willard was a son of the late Parnell and Ellen (Rambeau) Williams of Point Edward.
A pipefitter by trade, Willard spent more than 40 years working in the construction industry throughout Canada and the United States. He had many hobbies including fishing, fastball, hockey, golf and refereeing, but his favorite past time was harness racing. Over the years, he purchased several horses and after retirement, spent every waking moment dedicating his time to his horses at the racetrack. He was grateful to have made so many special friendships during this time.
Willard is survived by his daughters, Catherine (Clayton) Wilson and Mary ‘Theri’ (Tracey) Berends; grandchildren, Crista (Nick), Courtnay (Scully), Jamie-Lee (Jason), Jeffery (Jennifer), Matthew (Linden) and Andrew (Carlene); great-grandchildren, Veronika, Lincoln, Vienna, Natalee and Lennon; son-in-law, Hughie (Lisa) Boudreau; brothers, Jake (Mary), Winston (Patricia) and sisters, Madelynn (David) and
Agnes. Willard is also survived by his special friend, Colleen Beaton; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Besides his parents, Willard was predeceased by his loving wife, Mary Henrietta; daughter, Linda Marie; sister, Elizabeth ‘Betty’ and brothers, Archie and Ira.
Willard will be sadly missed and forever remembered by his family and friends, including those he spent his time with at Maple Hill Manor. On behalf of the family, we would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the special nurses and staff at Maple Hill Manor for their love, laughter and care of our Dad. We can’t thank you enough.
Memorial service to celebrate the life of Willard Williams will be announced in the Cape Breton Post at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Willard may be made to Loaves & Fishes Community Kitchen or the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.
Online Condolences
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So sorry to hear of Willard’s passing. He was a good many with a gentle soul, respected by all who were blessed to know him. It’s never easy saying goodbye, thank God for beautiful memories. Thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sorry to read of the loss of Willard
I’m so very sorry for the loss of your dad, papa, cousin or friend, whichever you described him as, he was a gentle soul and gentleman whom I will greatly miss at Maple Hill. I hope you all find peace in knowing how much he talked about, loved and cared for you all and he is now resting .. Rip Willy Wonka, we love you my friend ❤️
Sincere condolences to all the Family and Friends.
Sending condolences to Cathy, Teri friends and family Your Dad was a gentleman and had a kind heart for everyone.
It was a pleasure to know him
Sending hugs
Michelle Wilton
A sweet and gentle man. We will remember our many visits. Condolences to his family and Colleen
So many fond memories of Uncle Willard, Aunt Mary and our cousins. Mom told me once that her big brother, Willard, was her protector. ❤️
So sorry to all who loved uncle Willard great memories with cousins, especially over the holidays visiting New Waterford was a big adventure. He was also the MC at my wedding, which I was very thankful for hugs to all. Sincerely, Paula, Hennick Fader.
Our sincere condolences to Willards family and Colleen.Got to know him in West Bay Road.A real gentleman,friend and neighbour may he RIP. Don and Anne Marie
My sincere condolences to Willard’s family and friends, I had the pleasure of spending many days with Willard at maple hill manor and had a very special bond with him, on behalf of myself and my coworkers we I’ll miss you greatly handsome pants .
I will miss you Willy RIP my friend