Obituary of GANT – William George Bruce

October 20, 1927 – January 31, 2010 William George Bruce Gant of Calgary, beloved husband of Louise (Redmond), passed away on Sunday, January 31, 2010 at the age of 82 years. Bill was predeceased by his parents, Alfred and Emily (Bruce) Gant; his brother, Donald; and his grandson, Justin McNeill. Bill is survived by his three loving daughters, Patti (Bob Rippon), Sharon, and Nancy; his grandson, Marc Rippon; his granddaughters, Jenna (Nicolas Guinoiseau), Caitlin Rippon, and Jodi McNeill; his sister, Betty (Gordon Nerland); and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws. He will be remembered as a man of high principles and integrity, with a witty sense of humour, who worked very hard, volunteered tirelessly, loved sports, enjoyed music, and valued education. Bill was born in Vancouver on October 20, 1927, grew up in Medicine Hat, and studied geological engineering at Montana School of Mines. His career in oil and gas pipeline construction administration, spanning nearly thirty years, saw him rise from being a time-keeper, to President of H.C. Price of Canada, Ltd., during which time he became recognized as an international authority in winter construction techniques. Following a year in Alaska, as Project Manager of the Alyeska pipeline project, Bill left the pipeline construction industry in 1975 to join the Mannix Consortium, where he held a number of senior management positions. In 1984, Bill became Manager of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce. Upon his retirement in 1988, he was named Honorary Life Member in recognition of his distinguished service to the Calgary Chamber. Throughout his working life, Bill was an active industry promoter, as well as an ardent community volunteer. Bill was named Honorary Life Member of the Pipeline Contractors’ Association, in appreciation of his contributions to that industry. His devotion to the interests of the Calgary Stampede, culminating in twelve years as a Director, resulted in his being named Honorary Life Director in 1986. Bill was also a Director of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, the Calgary Economic Development Council, and the Calgary United Way, and was an Elder of St. Andrew’s United Church. From 1968, Bill concentrated his non-Stampede service efforts in the Rotary Club. He served Rotary in various capacities including President of his club, Governor of Rotary District 5360, and Director of Rotary International, as well as Rotary International President’s Representative. Bill’s Rotary perambulations took him and Louise to more than a dozen international conventions and meetings. Although Bill was extraordinarily active in industry and community affairs throughout his life, his first priority was always his family. They are very grateful for the high standards he set, the example he lived, and for the attention, love and support he so unfailingly gave each of them. A Funeral Service will be held at St. Andrew’s United Church (924 Heritage Drive S.W.) on Saturday, February 6, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Bill’s name to the Rotary Foundation (Canada), or the Rotary Clubs of Calgary Foundation, both c/o the Rotary Club of Calgary, 1202 Centre Street South, Calgary T2G 5M5 or, alternatively, to the charity of the contributor’s choice. Condolences may be forwarded through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In living memory of Bill Gant, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W. Telephone: (403) 243-8200.