It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Bill McTavish on August 9, 2023, at the Assiniboine Centre in Brandon, Manitoba, at the age of 82.

Bill leaves behind his loving wife of 60 years, Donna; sons, Scott (Barbara) and Brad (Matt); sisters, Verna Cuddington and Janet (George) Inman; brother, Terry (Patti); sister-in-law, Jo-Ann; grandchildren, Alex, Brendan, and Myles; many nieces and nephews; and extended family. He was predeceased by his parents, Pete and Gwen; his mother-in-law, Pauline Thompson; his brother, Bruce; and his brother-in-law, Bob Cuddington.

Bill was born on September 28,1940, in Moline, Manitoba, and he grew up on a farm in Cardale. He loved living on the farm as a child, and his interest in farming continued throughout his life. Bill attended Brandon University completing both his Bachelor of Arts and Education degrees. He began teaching in Napinka in 1961 where he met Donna Thompson at a bingo game. Bill and Donna were married in Melita on August 3,1963, and they moved to Berens Rivers shortly after where Bill continued his teaching career. Over the next ten years, Bill was a teacher and principal in various northern communities including Norway House, Tuktoyaktuk, and Inuvik. Bill very much enjoyed his experience in the North and would talk about it often, even returning to Norway House years later to connect with community members. In 1974, Bill returned to Brandon with his family where he taught for one final year at King George School. Bill then began a lengthy career in real estate which included being the co-owner of the City Centre and Beaubier Hotels in Brandon. He remained active in the real estate industry until his passing.

Family was especially important to Bill. He was immensely proud of his sons, Scott and Brad. When Scott and Brad were younger, Bill volunteered as a baseball and soccer coach, and he also enjoyed watching them compete in swim meets. Bill was thrilled when he became a grandfather and took on the new title of "Grandpa Bill". He loved to spend time with his grandchildren, Alex, Brendan, and Myles, and watch them grow into young men.

Bill liked travelling and enjoyed numerous family trips to visit friends and relatives. In later years, Bill and Donna left the cold Manitoba winters for warmer regions including Weslaco, Yuma, and Palm Springs. For over 45 years, summers were spent at Oak Lake Beach, which held a special place in Bill's heart. Countless memories were made at "the lake" as family members and friends would stop by to socialize.

Although he had a gruff exterior, Bill believed in helping the underdog by giving people opportunities when others might not have. Over the years, many people experienced Bill's generosity and kindness.

Bill was a loving husband, father, and grandfather who will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.

The family would like to extend its gratitude to the staff at the Assiniboine Centre who provided care for Bill.

A celebration of life will take place at a later date.

If so desired, donations in Bill's memory may be made to the Brandon Regional Health Centre (BRHC) Foundation at www.brhcfoundation.ca/donate/.