WILLIAM (BILL)
JAMES MACDIARMID

It is with profound sadness that we announce Bill MacDiarmid’s passing, peacefully with family by his side, on Monday, February 6, 2023.

Bill is survived by wife Ruth Allen, daughters Dana Maindonald (Daniel) and Lauren MacDiarmid whom he raised with their mother Linda MacDiarmid, and beloved grandchildren Archie, Clara and Parker. He will be remembered and deeply missed by family and friends.

Born June 2, 1947, the first of five children to Bill and Wynn MacDiarmid, Bill grew up in Woodhaven, a small and cozy neighbourhood where help was just a knock away if needed. Siblings Don, Anne, Jean and Archie joined the family in the years that followed.

Bill joined the Winnipeg Police Service in 1969. He served in several Divisions, attained the rank of Sergeant, and made many lifelong friends.  After retiring in 1996, Bill headed west to British Columbia for a much-anticipated life of leisure and instead, secured himself a second career in security and gaming compliance with BC Lotteries.

The pull of family was stronger than Bill’s dislike of snow and he returned to Winnipeg in 2006.

Bill was generous with his time and skills and volunteered with Winnipeg Humane Society as a kitten foster parent, the University of Winnipeg as a Language Partner, Hospice & Palliative Care Manitoba, Grace Hospice, and Ronald McDonald House Manitoba.

A character with a quick dry wit, Bill always had a one liner at the ready and could tell a story like no one else.

Bill treasured time with loved ones especially at the family cabin at Star Lake, an island haven where countless projects were planned and executed, crosswords completed and sunrise coffees consumed.

Bill was eternally curious about the world around him and travelled extensively with Ruth to destinations including Germany, Israel and Spain and was delighted to escape Winnipeg winters with her to Arizona and Victoria.

For the care they provided to him in his time of need, Bill’s family extends gratitude to the staff at HSC GD6 and the MICU.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held Saturday, March 4, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. at 603 Wellington Crescent at Academy Road (Unitarian Church).

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In lieu of flowers, consider making a donation to Ronald McDonald House Charities Manitoba or the Winnipeg Humane Society, two charities close to Bill’s heart.

Bill’s family kindly requests that all of his friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour his memory by sharing photos, memories, and stories, using the comment section on this page.

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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