Obituary of William Louis Marentette

William Louis (Bill) Marentette, at the age of 93, passed away on January 21, 2021, at Bluewater Health, Sarnia. Bill was predeceased by his beloved wife of 70 wonderful years, Viola (Vi) Marentette (December 2020). Dearly loved father to his daughters Carol (Brian) Fields, Susan (Allan) Stickley, and Nancy (Tony) Jevnikar. Cherished Grandpa of Jason (Jess), Shannon, Michael (Hyojin), Kelly (Andrew), Stephanie (Kevin), Daniel (Brittany), Steven (Cadence) and Jeffrey. Bill was also blessed with four great grandchildren: Owen, Abby, Lauren and Charlie. Bill was predeceased by his brothers, Bernard (2013) and Terry (2013). He is survived by his sister-in-law, Rosemary Marentette.

 

Bill lived most of his life in Windsor, moving with his wife to a retirement home in Sarnia in 2017 to be closer to family.

 

As a teen, Bill worked on Boblo Island and had many fond memories of those summers. He then worked in Detroit as a courier for the British Army Staff making deliveries to their corresponding office in Windsor. He had a long career as manager of Data Processing at Windsor Medical and continued when it became OHIP and then later, the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care.

 

Bill was an avid lover of local history, and was a long time member of the Essex County Historical Society. He had a vast collection of artifacts from past local breweries, dating back to the late 1800’s. This collection once filled most of his basement, and is now showcased at the Walkerville Brewery in Windsor. He compiled and published extensive research on local breweries, and was a respected member of the Canadian Brewerianist Society. In recognition of his contributions to the historical record of Windsor, he is depicted on a mural off Chatham Street. He has been interviewed by CBC Radio and featured in the Windsor Star. While a lover of the history of the breweries, he also enjoyed sharing a “cold one” with family and friends.

 

He was a regular golfer at Roseland Golf Club and he was an avid gardener, having won several Windsor Star Beautification Awards for his beautiful backyard garden.

 

He loved to read non-fiction, had a vast book collection and with his sharp mind, could lead a discussion on a wide range of topics. In the last few years his grandchildren introduced him to fiction – to mystery novels. He loved that they enjoyed the same books and would critique them together.

 

Family and friends and all who knew him, will always remember Bill for his friendly and outgoing nature – and his bright smile and often silly remarks that left you feeling good about the day. 

 

Above all, he cherished his family – his life was centered around his wife and three daughters and their families. They meant more to him than anything else…and he made their home on Morris Drive the favorite family destination for so many years.  He will live on, treasured in our hearts.

 

The family greatly appreciates the efforts and compassionate care given by the staff at Bluewater Health, as Bill struggled with COVID 19. 

 

A private family funeral service will be held at McKenzie & Blundy Funeral Home, followed by interment at Resurrection Cemetery.

 

Arrangements entrusted to the McKenzie & Blundy Funeral Home & Cremation Centre, Sarnia (519-344-3131) As an expression of sympathy, friends who wish may send memorial donations to the Bluewater Health Foundation, 89 Norman St., Sarnia, ON N7T 6S3.  Messages of condolence and memories may be left at www.mckenzieblundy.com