February 14, 1948 - June 22, 2024
It is with profound sadness and love that we announce the passing of Lawrence William “Bill” Swainson, age 76, of St. Marys. Bill passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Saturday, June 22, 2024 at University Hospital, London.
Bill was born in Parry Sound, Ontario, February 14, 1948, son of the late Robert and Isabel (Knowles) Swainson. Beloved and devoted husband to his wife and sidekick of 50 years, Carolyn (Mullen) Swainson. Proud Dad to the late Amanda Swainson and Erin “Turk” Swaison-Brickman (Peter Brickman) and dotting Papa to Brinsley Brickman, his best buddy. Bill will also be greatly missed by his extended family and many friends.
Bill drove transport truck for 44 years and loved it. He drove many years in Northern Ontario, raising his family and living in Sudbury. Later in life, he relocated to Southern Ontario, where Bill and Carolyn then retired in St. Marys.
In his younger years, Bill had a passion for motorcycles, snow machines, water skiing on lake Rosseau, cars, fishing and country music. He enjoyed sports, particularly spending countless hours at the rink with Erin and then at the ballpark with Brinsley.
Bill grew to love Standardbred Harness racing and shared a passion for everything about it. He even shared ownership of a race horse with his daughter Erin. He loved to spend quality hours in the barn and helping hay. Bill hardly ever missed a race when Erin, Peter and Brinsley were racing; they have lost their biggest fan.
Bill was one of the funniest people you could have ever met, there was always a “Billism” to be said and a belly laugh to be had. He made friends wherever he went, his laughter and smile brought warmth to every heart he touched. He loved those closest to him with a love and openness that made them better people.
Thank you to the staff and doctors at University Hospital, London for their outstanding care. To the numerous specialists in London that cared for Bill for many years, thank you. A heartfelt special thank you to, Dr. Charles “Chuck” Gatfield who has gone above and beyond for Bill and his family; we are truly grateful.
Family and friends are invited to a celebration of Bill’s life in the Reception Centre of the W.G. Young Funeral Home, 430 Huron Street, Stratford on Sunday, July 7, 2024 from 1-3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Lung Association of Canada, the Diabetes Association of Canada and the St. Marys Memorial Hospital Foundation.
