Obituary

William John Edward Rees
April 26, 1928 – February 3, 2017

Bill is lovingly remembered by his brother James (Margaret) and his niece Catherine Rees (Ross Alden) and the many friends he held as extended family. Bill was predeceased by his father Ronald, mother Rebecca and nephew David.

Bill was quiet and reserved but very generous, kind and caring. He lived life with laughter, enthusiasm, joy and a sense of humor. He had a keen interest in his community, country and world affairs.

Bill found joy in serving others: his family, his church and the community through the YMCA. He loved to sing in his church choir and served his church in many capacities. Bill quietly modeled service during his almost 60 years as a YMCA volunteer in both Regina and Edmonton. He was a passionate YMCA youth leader, swim and fitness instructor, fundraiser, board member (both local and YMCA Canada), board chair and international advocate.

Bill started working in radio as a high school student in Regina and continued to have a successful career including work with the Alberta Public Affairs Bureau. He was a long time member of the Canadian Public Relations Society. Bill was instrumental in forming the Regina chapter of Junior Chamber of Commerce and was recognized as a Jaycees Senator (#304).

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM Friday February 10th at St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church 11111 – 57 Ave, Edmonton. Interment will be in Regina.

Donations in Bill’s memory may be made to the Edmonton YMCA Foundation, 200, 10211 105 Street NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 1E3 or https://northernalberta.ymca.ca

Published in The Edmonton Journal and The Leader-Post on Feb. 7, 2017