March 12, 2025
The family of William Murray"Bill" Penhale announces with sadness his death onMarch 12th 2025 at the age of 91 years. He died peacefully at his Wexford Creek Seniors residence in Nanaimo with wife Barbara and son Bob at his side.
Also mourning his loss are sons Jim (Katie) of South Dakota, John (Debbie) of Ottawa and his sister Paula Clark of Connecticut. Granddaughters Grace, Katherine and Adrianna Penhale miss Grandpa/Papa dearly as do grandchildren/great-grandchildren by marriage Hilary (Andrew), Bradley, Oliver and Nora. Bill was predeceased by his parents Gordon and Helen Penhale of St. Thomas, ON.
Following basic schooling in St. Thomas, Bill entered Queen's University and graduated in 1956 as a chemical engineer. In subsequent years he worked in engineering and procurement functions in several locations in western and central Canada. One of his early positions was in the (then) small town of Fort McMurray AB, where he worked for Great Canadian Oil Sands. That remote northern environment lent itself to family wilderness adventures of all sorts, wonderful experiences for his three young sons. After multiple moves Bill and Barbara eventually settled in Calgary AB. Bill retired from Imperial Oil but established his own business in supply management and worked in that capacity until retiring fully. In later years he and Barbara moved to Nanaimo BC to be closer to one of their sons, and also to enjoy shorter winters.
Bill was a lifelong aviation enthusiast. He earned his private pilot licence as a young man and enjoyed building and flying radio-controlled models for many years. His enthusiasm for aviation has been absorbed by his three sons, who are all very knowledgeable about the subject in their own ways. Bill never tired of looking skyward when a flying machine passed overhead.
Billwas also actively involved in politics and worked to support his chosen parties throughout his life. He believed strongly in working toward a better Canada.
The family extends its deep gratitude and love to all the staff atWexford Creek, particularly those in long-term care, for the warm and thoughtful way they looked after Bill asAlzheimer's continued its inexorable course.We were always sure that Bill was safe, treated with respect, and in caring hands.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date