W. L. D. FARRELL

FARRELL, W.L.D. "Bill" FARRELL, W.L.D. "Bill" - Lieutenant Commander RCN (Ret'd), succumbed to illness on February 7, 2008. Bill was born in Ottawa on May 28, 1925, and lived there until his departure from University of Ottawa in 1944 to join the Royal Canadian Navy, in which he served for 24 years. He served in naval aviation in the aircraft carriers Warrior and Magnificent in several frigates and destroyers, none of which he had sent to the bottom. His last sea appointment was with the destroyer Iroquois during the Korean War. While never decorated for bravery in combat, he was nonetheless frequently mentioned in dispatches, although not always desired. Bill, in his retirement years, chose to take up flying as a second career, resulting in the loss of only several aircraft with no loss of life. Having learned what not to do, Bill moved into the area of flight instruction, and it is believed most of his students still survive. Bill's last position was as C.F.I. for the Shearwater Flying Club. Bill was also a great supporter for improving the capabilities of Canada's military and spent many tireless hours championing for 21st century ships supported by improvements to the Shearwater Naval Air Base. He was predeceased by Trudy, his wife of 50 years. He is survived by his children, Douglas (Cheryl), William, both of New Brunswick; Robert (Sharon), Susan (John), Glenda (Jim), all of Dartmouth; eight grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter. Visitation will be from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, February 10, in Cole Harbour Funeral Home, 1234 Cole Harbour Rd., Cole Harbour. A reception will follow in Shearwater Aviation Museum from 5-7 p.m. Interment at a later date. Many thanks to the Palliative Care Unit of QEII Health Sciences Centre. Any donations in memory should be made to the Shearwater Aviation Museum Foundation. No flowers by request.