HEFLER, WILLIAM (BILL) WALLACE May 6, 1931 – September 14, 2018 Bill Hefler passed away after a short hospital stay surrounded by the love of his wife, daughters and family in Toronto, Friday, September 14, 2018 Bill was a larger-than-life figure, a tall man with a big smile made even bigger by the moustache that framed it.
He was a successful, visionary businessman, an avid athletic sportsman and a devoted father, grandfather and family man. He was born in St. Catharines where he married his high school sweetheart, Shirley. He was a fixture on Yonge Street since 1953, first as a partner in Ray’s Auto Radio, then Lawrence Park Hardware before founding The Sign of the Skier in 1962. He built his business on integrity, deep product knowledge and quality service with a keen interest in his customers and staff. He was a superb and graceful skier and excellent instructor, staying on the slopes until 80 years of age. He was a keen golfer, on the links 10 times in PEI in the last month alone. Bill retired at age 62 but continued to drop by the store to take on a project or offer a few words of wisdom.
He could fix or build anything (not necessarily to code!). He was always eager to help and teach family and friends. Bill was happiest at the head of the table smiling at his ever-growing family. He was especially proud and pleased to see his grandchildren become great friends. He valued his friendships deeply, many of which have lasted a lifetime. His welcome mat was well-worn and Bill and Shirley were regular hosts at their homes in Toronto, Sarasota, Florida and Alice Island on Georgian Bay. He enjoyed a good joke and liked to tease. Bill and Shirley loved to dance throughout their 70 years together. We thought a man this robust, so full of life, energy, passion and fun would live forever. And though, of course he didn’t, his influence and impact is his legacy.
We’re sure he’d like you to smile, raise a glass and celebrate a life well lived. Bill is survived by his beloved Shirley and their daughters, Bonnie de Merlis (Paul) and family: Adam (Keila), Amy; Barbara Hefler (Michael Hollett) and family: Reed, Lauren (Michael), Jules; Judy Donaldson (Ron) and family: Erik (Claire), Blake (Melissa), and great-grands: William, much anticipated new ‘Little Missy’, and Maddy. He leaves his brother Jud Hefler, his many nieces and nephews and was predeceased by his sister Joan Gordon. Cremation has taken place.
There will be a Celebration of Bill’s Life at the Donalda Club at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made to Sunnybrook’s Odette Cancer Centre.