William James Speer passed away peacefully on Monday, May 7, 2001 at the Minnedosa Hospital. He was pre-deceased by his wife, Margaret in 1985 and by his sister Reeta. Bill will be sadly missed by his daughter, Maxine and her husband Gerald Orr of Franklin; and by his grandsons, Murray Orr and Melvin Orr of Brandon. Bill was born November 5, 1910 in Minnedosa, the younger child of William Henry and Kate Speer. He was raised and received his education in Minnedosa. Bill married Margaret Suski on August 15, 1940. During his lifetime he was blessed with the gift of music. At an early age Bill began to play the violin and soon became known in the area as he entertained old and young alike. For years he played with the Merry Minstrels orchestra at the Minnedosa Personal Care Home for the enjoyment of the residents there. Bill was an avid bowler, and he enjoyed fishing. Most of his working life was spent at the Canadian Pacific Railroad yards in Minnedosa. The Funeral Service was held at the Minnedosa United Church on Friday, May 11, 2001. Rev. Shawn Ankenmann officiated. Interment was held at the Minnedosa Cemetery. Donations in memory of Bill may be made to the Parkinson Foundation of Canada, 55 Bloor Street West, Suite 232, Toronto, Ontario M4W 1A6 or Minnedosa Hospital Handi-Van Fund, Box 960, Minnedosa, Manitoba R0J 1E0.