William "Bill" Joseph McCoy

February 4th, 2014

It is with great sadness to announce the passing of a beloved husband, father, brother, brother-in-law, uncle and great uncle on February 4, 2014 in Calgary at the age of 81 years. He was born in Toronto, Ontario on January8, 1933. Bill had an eventful youth having three older siblings with a built in mischievousness that would eventually influence his character into the one that we all knew and loved. With the gift of eloquence somehow bestowed to him by the Blarney Stone he would keep us in stitches for hours from the many stories he had to tell. Bill joined the R.C.M.P. in 1953 and was posted to numerous towns and cities throughout Alberta. In time he met and married his wife, Norma in 1959 and they had a son, Brent in 1961. More transfers around Alberta followed until his retirement with the R.C.M.P. in 1979 at his last post which was in the town of Banff, Alberta. Here he worked at various positions, later becoming involved with the Royal Canadian Legion and working for the Alberta Sheriff’s office as a Bailiff. During this semi retirement, Bill and Norma acquired a motorhome and started on 30 some years of travelling and fishing which was one of his favorite things. In 1993 Bill decided to retire for good and moved to Calgary and continue on his quest to camp at every little campground in Alberta and surrounding provinces. The stories are numerous, too many to tell but he lived a rich and engaging life. All that he touched in his own special way will remember him for his humour, graciousness and his ability to listen or talk to anyone. He is survived by many, many relatives and friends and they will cherish any and all memories that he gave us. There will be no formal service held as per his wishes. If friends so desire, memorial donations in Bill’s honour to the charity or institution of their choice may be made. If it is your custom, please raise a glass for him!  “Sláinte!” 

Messages:

Norma....we just read of Bills passing in the Vets newsletter today. It was because of you and Bill that we met...and celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary 2012.... Bill was our best man! And you were my best friend in grade 7 in Wetaskiwin . We are so sorry ....Bill was really someone special.......... Rollie and Rennie Reorda

Norma & Brent we were so sorry to hear of Bill's passing. We will always hold fond memories of our time spent with you all and the many laughs we shared. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Norma, Brent and Family, I worked with Bill's brother Barry, in Toronto, who made me promise to introduce myself to his RCMP brother when I decided to move to Banff. Bill and Norma welcomed me into their home and helped me to find a job and a place to live. I will always remember Bill for his genuine caring and kindness. My sincere condolences to you Norma and Brent.

I am proud to say Bill was my friend.while I was a Regional Director of Corrections, Bill served with the Force in the same area that I did. Many of those members along with myself worked very close with each other including a judge, Percy Keyes. Our world has lost a person who cared for his job, proud of the Force and became a good caring friend. I will miss him as will his family. Bill, go rest high on the mountain a friend stands here missing you.

It was with sadness I learned of Bill's recent passing. My sincere condolences go out to Norma, Brent and family. As a young RCMP recruit in Edson, Alberta, Bill was my very first mentor and senior constable. He was more like a big brother, teaching and guiding me through the maze of police-work. I boarded meals with Norma and Bill, and was accepted into their happy family. I have never forgotten either of them for their kindnesses. Sincerely Ian Parsons

Norma and Family, Please accept my condolences on the passing of Bill. I knew him from the Red Deer and Wetaskiwin areas back in 1959 and beyond when we were in the RCMP. I got an email from him just recently and I was very surprised when I heard of his passing. A great guy and a friend who will be missed.

Norma and Brent, what can we say, we are so sorry to hear about Bill. He was a great guy and saved me grief more than once. I'll always remember when he stood up for grandpa Cliff when he married Martha in the living room in Banff. Then the Party started !!....and the many good times with you and mom, Bill and Dad in Banff. R I P friend Bill. "Sla'inte"! The Hendersons Brad, Val, Don, Pearl (Deceased)

My condolences to family and friends. My father, Wally Wallace also a Mountie for decades - deceased Dec 30/11, and I both knew Bill.

hi norma and brent, thinking of you and bill

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