Obituary of William Harcourt-O’Reilly

It is with sadness that the family announces the passing of Bill Harcourt-O’Reilly on Tuesday, December 9, 2003 at the age of 88 years. Bill fought a brave battle with Arthritis for many years but the end came very quickly and quietly. Bill was born in Calgary, educated at Elbow Park School, Ridley College in Ontario, and Western Canada High School, and held a diploma in Purchasing from the University of Toronto. Bill started work in the oil patch in the Turner Valley area in the late 30’s working as a Field Supervisor. He was with Commonwealth Drilling, Anglo-Canadian (White Rose), Canadian Oil, and finally Shell Oil until retirement. Bill finished his career consulting for four years as a Purchasing Consultant. Bill was a traditional family man and a loving husband and father. Jean and Bill bought their first home in Kensington in 1952 and later moved to Scarboro. They enjoyed thirty-five years of community life. Bill volunteered with the community association from President to Rink-maker. They had an active life camping with the “gang” and enjoying the Scarboro “cookouts”. They loved to travel. Bill will be remembered by his dry wit and sense of humor as the life and soul of any party. Bill will be sadly missed by his daughter Susan Bain of Barbados and son Michael (Carol) Harcourt-O’Reilly, his granddaughter Laura Lee (Martin) Reuter all of Calgary; also nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife of 62 years, Jean (June 7, 2003), his parents, Lilian Harcourt and Patrick O’Reilly, and his sisters, Margaret Dinney and Patricia Haggart. We give thanks for the life of Bill Harcourt-O’Reilly. Thanks also to their many friends who provided loving support over the years. Some of these were Dorothy and Ed Klovan, Vern and Barbara Lindeburg, Steve and Becky Lathrop, and Ken Coombs. We are also grateful to the staff of the Hillcrest Extendicare Nursing Home who cared for Bill over this past year. A Celebration of Bill’s life will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Chapel of the Bells (2720 Centre Street North), on Tuesday, December 16, 2003 at 1:30 P.M. A reception will follow at the Days Inn (1818, 16th Ave. N.W.) at 3:00 P.M. To forward condolences go to www.mcinnisandholloway.com. Flowers are gratefully declined. Donations may be sent directly to the charity of your choice. In living memory of Bill Harcourt-O’Reilly a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street North, CALGARY, TELEPHONE: (403) 276-2296.