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| William Beley
(1932-2003) |
William Beley
BELEY, William (Wasel) "Big Bill" It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father and grandfather, Bill Beley on April 28, 2003 at the age of 71. He is survived by his loving family of three daughters and one son. Nancy Beley of San Francisco; Janice Beley and Lisa (Jonathan) Beley of Vancouver; Buddy (Laurie) Beley of St. Albert as well as three grandchildren Jessy, Macy and Brooklyn of St. Albert; sisters Kay Straw of Conyers, Georgia; Alice (Richard) Fleming of Las Vegas, Nevada; sister-in-law Joan Beley of Edmonton and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Bill is predeceased by parents Helen and John Beley of Edmonton, brother Peter Beley of Edmonton and former wife and mother of his children Leda Mathieson of Richmond, BC. If anyone lived up to his name, it was "Big" Bill Beley. A big man with an even bigger heart, he will be remembered by all who knew him for his huge capacity to give back to his community and his passionate commitment to those less fortunate than himself. Those who crossed Bill's path will forever remember the countless hours he devoted to the many charities he supported. Whether for the Northern Alberta Crippled Children's Fund, The Associated Canadian Travellers. The Canadian Federation of Chefs and Cooks, or any number of other organizations, Big Bill could be relied upon to devote himself to projects with tireless enthusiasm, a generosity of spirit and belief in how things should be run! One of Bill's proudest accomplishments was his fundraising for the construction of The A.C.T. Recreation Centre in Rundle Park. Other projects who benefited from Bill's influence include Goldbrick, Camp He-Ho-Ha, Telerama, not to mention the innumerable Bingos and Casinos. If there was money to be raised, Big Bill was there. Born in Willingdon AB., Bill lived most of his life in Canada. For a short time he held United States citizenship and served with distinction in the United States Marine Corps for four years toward the end of the Korean War. A salesman by trade, it is safe to say that Bill "knew the territory". Those who met him on his travels rarely, if ever forgot "Big" Bill, and buyer or seller, were always richer for the encounter. In more recent times Bill's travels have led him toward an active participation in the Baptist Church. He also found joy with the local senior's choir The Choralaires, who will sorely miss Bill's spirited singing. Bill's love of life was matched only by his love of family and friends of whom there are so many. He will be deeply missed. The family would like to express great thanks to the staff at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Edmonton, for their care and compassion during Bill's final days. His family and friends will gather to celebrate his life and wish him the fondest farewell at Northgate Baptist Church. 13208-95 Street Saturday, May 3rd starting at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Canadian Diabetes Foundation 12834-163 Street Edmonton, AB., T5V 1K6.
William married Leda Mathieson. |
Another name for William was Wasel Beley.