William (Bill) Northcott passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at Georgian Bay General Hospital, age 88 years. Beloved husband, best friend, joy and love of her life, of Joan (Calderwood) for over 60 years, and dearly loved and missed by their three sons Paul (Yolanda), Mark (Alina), David (Danielle)and five grandchildren, Emily, Alexis, Malvina, Greyson and Gabriel, special brother-in-law to Lorna Baker and family. Bill was the cherished brother of Ruth Northcott, physics, maths and astronomy professor at University of Toronto. The two shared their love of astronomy and it was very fitting that Bill chose to leave this world at the time of the SUPER MOON – 8:00 pm, (20:00 hrs), October 19, 2024!
Bill began his teaching career at Thornhill Secondary School, then became Head of Geography at King City S.S., followed by Newtonbrook S.S. before moving to Midland S.S. in 1973, retiring in 1993. Throughout his teaching career he took students on trips and various exchanges across Canada.
In December 1999, Bill was appointed by the Attorney General of Ontario, to the position of Member of the Assessment Review Board for two three-year terms –2000-2003; 2003-2006. He had hearings in various towns and cities across the province. He wrote a historical book on ‘Thunder Bay Beach’, (where his family cottage is located), published in 1989 by Boston Mills Press. He was interested in writing a history of Midland and updating and expanding his Thunder Bay Beach book. The job with the Assessment Review Board gave him the opportunity to do research in the libraries and museums where his hearings took place. In 2008, he published “Midland on Georgian Bay: An Illustrated History of Midland.” In 2010, he published “Thunder Bay Beach: and the Nearby Islands of Southern Georgian Bay”. He donated his extensive collection of postcards and photographic collection to the Huronia Museum.
Bill had many interests over the years; Huronia Hash House Harriers, skiing – downhill and cross-country, lawn bowling, history/research. He was someone who deeply cared for his family. He will be remembered as a loving, warm-hearted person with a good sense of humour and a contagious laugh.
The family takes solitude in and will always treasure his final message --
“Keep on Paddling! I love you!”
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, November 10th, 2024, from 1 pm – 4 pm at Brooklea Golf & Country Club, Hwy #93, Midland, Ontario
Funeral arrangements entrusted to Carson Funeral Homes J.H. Lynn Chapel, 290 First St, Midland Ontario (705) 526-6551
If desired, donations in Bill’s memory can be made to the Salvation Army, or Charity of your choice.
