Obituary of William Joseph Anthony Minnick
With sadness we announce the passing of William“Bill” Joseph Anthony Minnick. Bill passed away peacefully at home on the family farm on Friday, October 6th, 2023 in his 81st year. He was born on August 16th, 1942 in Fort Erie, Ontario to William and Loretto Minnick (nee Madden).
Beloved husband to Carole (nee Goulet) with whom he celebrated 55 years of marriage in September 2023. Forever cherished by his daughters Jen (Sebastian) and Kate (Andrew) and grandkids Marenna, Greyson, Liam and Evie. Bill is predeceased by his parents andsiblings Danny, Marcia, and David (Pam). He will be dearly missed by brothers and sisters Greg (Claudette), Karen Pomeroy (Bob), Marie Groot (the late John), Sheila Capriotti (the late Rick), Dolores, and Chris (Sheryl), his late brother-in-law Andre, sister-in-law Noella (Chi Chi), sister-in-law Martha (David) and brother-in-law Raymond (Louise). He is fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews and extended family and friends.
Bill was a kind-hearted, gentle man, always willing to help anyone in need. His quick wit and self-deprecating sense of humour put those around him at ease. He was a skilled listener and offered sage advice to whomever asked. Bill will be lovingly remembered for being thoughtful, hard working, and humble. He always had a twinkle in his eye and loved making others laugh. He was famously known for saying, “Take your time.”
Bill loved nature and was a beekeeper for 38 years. He passionately shared his love of beekeeping. He worked closely with the Apiculture Program at the University of Guelph in honey bee research (now called the Honey Bee Research Centre), was President of the Ontario Beekeepers Association for two years in the mid-1980s and stayed involved as a Director for many years. He was made an Honourary Member of The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair for Honey and Maple Syrup Products, and was granted a Lifetime Membership in the OBA. He and his beekeeping buddy, the late Keith Forsyth, worked together for many years as Bee Inspectors for the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.
Visitations will take place at Merritt Funeral Home, Smithville, on Wednesday, October 11th, 2023 from 6-8pm and Thursday October 12th from 10-11am. The funeral service will follow on Thursday, October 12th at 11am. A reception will follow.
Donations to the Ontario Beekeepers Associationhttps://www.ontariobee.com/donations would be appreciated by the family and if desired can be made through the funeral home at (905) 957-7031.
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