Sadly, we announce the passing of our beloved William David Hipwell, born October 8, 1925 in Chilliwack, BC. He passed away suddenly on May 2, 2011 in Victoria. Bill is survived by his loving wife, Karen of 39 years; daughter, Joy Babiki; grandchildren, Sunny and Justin; son, Jim (Diane); grandchildren, Sarah Logan (Ashley), Chad, Ryan (Kate); daughter, Jill Scott and son, James (Sharon); grandson, Finn; brother, Dick (Sue) of Campbell River; sister-in-law, Joyce Dyble of Chilliwack and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his sister, Rosemary Tompson of Vernon and his brother, Jack of Castlegar.
Bill served in the Royal Canadian Navy in WWII. Using his service credits, he attended UBC and graduated in 1949 with a Bachelor of Pharmacy. He joined his father, Harry D. Hipwell at Hipwell’s Pharmacy in Chilliwack. Together they expanded the company and opened stores in Lytton, Hope, Agassiz and Vedder Crossing. Finally, he concentrated on the Vedder Crossing location, where he appreciated his loyal customers, whom he greeted by name, until his retirement in 1986. His love of sport prompted him to organize the first Chilliwack Community Football League and the first public swimming lessons at Cultus Lake. He had a passion for fishing, golf, tennis, football, poker and bridge. He was a proud Kinsmen and Rotarian and was an avid traveller. He travelled the world and had spent the last 25 winters in Maui. Bill will be missed dearly; his kindness and love brought two families together.
Family and friends are invited to gather at 3:30 pm on Saturday, May 14, 2011 at the Water’s Edge Clubhouse, 2600 Ferguson Road, Saanichton. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Victoria Epilepsy and Parkinson’s Centre, 813 Darwin Avenue, Victoria, BC V8X 2X7 or BC Cancer Agency, 2410 Lee Avenue, Victoria, BC V8R 6V5 would be appreciated.
Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mccallbros.com
McCall’s of Victoria, BC (1-800-870-4210)