George William (Bill) Winegarden
It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness that we announce the passing of George William (Bill) Winegarden from this life on March 14, 2026, at the Innisfree Hospice in Kitchener. Born on April 6, 1934, at St Joseph's Hospital in London, Ontario, Bill lived a life full of love, laughter, and dedication to those he cherished.
Bill was the son of John and Clara/Dolly (nee Teggin) Winegarden. He is now reunited with his dear wife, Ruth Mary (née Hunter), his brother, Jack, and his sister, Diane. His spirit and legacy continue through his devoted children, Andrea and Craig, his treasured grandchildren Megan, Anneke, Yolande, and Justin, and his precious great-grandchildren, Lyla and Juniper. Bill leaves behind a loving family, including his brother Gary (Donna), sister Diane dec. (Riley), nieces and nephews, Ron (Loretta), Susan dec., Rick dec. (Estelle), Nancy (Keith), Kathy dec. (Bert), Jim (Linda), Peter (Cindy), and Nancy (Ron), Laurie dec., Neil (Serena), Lyndsay, Karen, Liane, Kris (Scott), and Beth all of whom he cherished dearly.
Bill's journey with Ruth began in 1953 when, at just 19 years old, he married the love of his life. Their story was one of true romance, beginning with a fateful meeting at Port Stanley and a charming sketch drawn from memory to ensure he would never forget her face. They spent a lifetime together, building a family rooted in love and shared dreams.
While he did not graduate—he was forced to leave school early to pay his father’s debts—his time at Central Secondary School in London was an important part of his life—he spoke very fondly of his days playing sports at Central. He excelled in track and field, basketball and football and he was on the 1949 London Conference Championship Football team. But it was on the baseball diamond that he truly shined. Bill's talent and dedication led him to many championships, an MVP award, and his induction into the London Sports Hall of Fame as a member of the 1952 Lou Ball Juniors team (a video about the London Sports Hall of Fame induction can be found on Youtube). This love of sports continued to connect him to others throughout his life.
Bill's professional journey was marked by resilience and determination. Despite leaving school early, he found his calling in sales, rising from a humble beginning in a machine shop to become the national sales manager for Electrohome. His story is a testament to his perseverance and unyielding spirit, proving that with hard work anything is possible.
Beyond his career, Bill was an avid baseball coach, sharing his passion and expertise with his granddaughter Megan and many others. He also enjoyed league bowling and was a cherished member of several church communities in Galt. Bill's artistic flair was evident throughout his life, from the early recognition of his talent in grade school to his later years, where he took pride in sketching and even painting the scenic old mill in Blair. Bill also found joy in music, both singing in the choir, often with his daughter, and listening to his substantial music collection.
Bill often reflected on the import role that the Creightons (the family of his close friend Dale) played in his life. The Creightons took him in after his home collapsed and Mr. Creighton helped Bill find work and Mrs. Creighton inspired him to believe in himself. These positive role models, combined with Ruth’s love would help set Bill on a life course that would help him become a generous caring role model himself—he was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, team mate, friend and neighbour.
Family gatherings were filled with Bill’s laughter, storytelling, and his undeniable charisma. He possessed an ability to bring people together and foster an atmosphere of warmth, joy and sometimes silliness. His stories, humour, and love for others were the hallmarks of his character, leaving an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
As we bid farewell to Bill, we remember a man who embodied compassion, generosity, duty and resilience. His legacy is one of unwavering devotion to family and friends, a life lived with purpose and joy. Bill will be laid to rest beside his beloved Ruth in Mount View Cemetery. While there will be no formal funeral, a celebration of his life will be held in the spring, where we will gather to honour and remember the lives of both Ruth and Bill—this wonderful couple who touched our lives so deeply. Dad, we are comforted knowing you are now at peace with your Loving Heavenly Father.
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