William (Bill) Luck

Born in Cranbrook, grew up in Canal Flats. Developed a love and respect for the ocean on family holidays to visit his uncle on Denman Island.  Finished school at Vancouver Tech. Apprenticed in Calgary. Joined Navy and worked on anti-submarine technology during WW II. Spent three years in coastal waters with Vancouver Tug & Barge.

Worked on construction at Elk Falls Mill (1951-52). Then employed at the mill, beginning as a machinist and ending as Maintenance Superintendent, highly respected by all.  Retired after 36 years, in 1988.

Family life at Storie beach, providing a pan-abode cottage next door for his mother. Together he and Grace raised their three children. Salmon fishing aplenty and built an A-frame cabin on Forbidden Plateau; skiing with family & friends, ski trips with special Courtenay friends, and to Austria twice and New Zealand's southern Alps. Later, on Mt. Washington, into his 80’s. Enjoyed family camping and as a member of the C.V. RV club for many years. Bill and Grace traveled overseas, independently, many times, especially to England visiting relatives & friends.

Volunteering with Herb Bradley’s Adaptive ski program; as a “muffin” man at Filberg Evergreen lounge, canvassed for Cancer Society, and a member of Courtenay Kiwanis for 26 years enjoying taking part in many club projects and Kiwanis fellowship. 

Bill was predeceased by parents Kathleen and Ben, brother Fred and sister-in-law Evelyn and niece Sharon. 

Bill bravely endured a long struggle with the double whammy of cancer and Parkinsons, supported by family, Kiwanis club members, and friends. He died peacefully in hospital, with the support of all his family and daughter Connie by his side. He is survived by wife Grace (Davies) (62 years), son Ben, daughter Connie, granddaughters Sophie and Jenny, son Chris and wife Michelle, grandsons Zachary and Xavier, and great niece Tracy and family. 

Thanks to Dr. Bakshi and special nurses. A memorial gathering for family and friends will be held in the Filberg Evergreen Lounge at Courtenay, from 2 pm Sunday Dec 22nd, 2019. Flowers gratefully declined.