Book of Memories for William Robert Squire

Condolence From Janet Miller Pitt

Tue, 23 May 2017 11:59:14 EDT

Dear Mrs. Squire, Marni and family, It was a wonderful day in my life when Marni decided to invite me to Explorers. I was Anglican but my mother staunchly supported inter-denominational exhange and encouraged me to go. This began my connection with the Squire family and the United Church. Mrs. Squire was our Explorer leader and I can still hear her quiet voice in the cool hall of Emmanuel United telling us indelible stories of love and kindness. Later, Mr. Squire was my principal the first year Canterbury opened. He set a tone of leadership, belief in young people, and excellence that marks Canterbury to this day. I and my family moved to St. John's, NL in 1970 and I later became part of the congregation of Gower Street United Church through marriage. Many years later when Mrs. Squire as Moderator visited St. John's, I was able to speak with her after a dinner honouring women leaders and thank her and her family for their contribution to bringing people together and drawing the circle wide across Canada. He must be so sorely missed. I am thinking of you all.

Condolence From Ross Donaldson

Wed, 26 Oct 2016 16:19:17 EDT

My condolences to the family. At the beginning of my teaching career Bill was my first Principal. He was a mentor and a role model for the position of Principal. I was throughout my career a better educator because I was fortunate to have Bill's direction and guidance at a very formative stage of my career. He was, in my opinion, an exemplar in all facets of his long life.

Condolence From Vera Gajdicar

Wed, 26 Oct 2016 11:48:31 EDT

Dear Marni and family... we have fond memories of your dad... our sincere condolences... Vera and Tom Gajdicar

Condolence From Gillian Shields

Mon, 24 Oct 2016 22:00:39 EDT

Dear Anne and family, It was a privilege to have made the acquaintance of Bill, even if only for a short period of time. I was often over at the Oakpark visiting my father, Ken Shields, before he passed away in August and we would sometimes sit with Bill and Jim at suppertime. Dinners were full of laughter and engaging conversation. My very sincere condolences on your loss. Gillian Shields (and my children, Carlos and Carmen Barbery)

Condolence From Judy (Liuzzo) Gatehouse

Sat, 22 Oct 2016 18:12:25 EDT

Dear Mrs. Squire and family, Please accept my sincere condolences on the loss of your dear husband, father and grandfather. I was in the first cohort of students to graduate from the then brand new Canterbury High School under his leadership as principal. I still have my Grade 13 report card with his signature on it. The obituary is a vivid and much-appreciated picture of his many contributions to our country and Ottawa beyond what I knew as a student. My sincere sympathies for your loss. Judy (Liuzzo) Gatehouse

Story shared: Holding up the Moderator

Sat, 22 Oct 2016 12:42:11 EDT

Dear Anne,

I am sorry for the loss of your beloved, and celebrate the strength and love he gave to the world for so long.

I believe that the first time I met him was at your home in 1997 shortly after Bill was elected moderator. It was clear that you invited us to offer your loving care and support. I remember at a moment during the visit, you and Bill were in deep conversation about the role of moderator, the church, the press .... and controversies. You had been through it all yourself with such grace. Your Bill and I listened quietly. He served tea. "That's how it's done," I thought. He is teaching me, even as you were teaching Bill. It was a moment I thought of often in the 3 year term. Over the years, Bill always had a kind word of encouragement and a smile for me. I am grateful to have met him. You will be in our prayers, dear Anne.

Carolyn Pogue

Condolence From Rev. Whitman Strong

Sat, 22 Oct 2016 08:37:24 EDT

Anne and family, On behalf of all of us at the Montreal & Ottawa Conference Office, I offer my deepest sympathies on Bill's passing. Bill was an extraordinary man who touched and enriched the lives of so many people in so many walks of life. He will be fondly remembered and deeply missed. May the memories of the years you were together offer you comfort in this time of loss. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers today and in the days ahead. Whit Strong

Condolence From Bruce McLeod and Joyce Kelly

Fri, 21 Oct 2016 17:07:28 EDT

Our Dear Anne Such good memories of Bill's always gracious and so friendly presence at your side. Allt those years together - a model of steadiness and long love through most of a century! Together, you were a blessing to each other, to your family,,.. and to so many. In the church and beyond - -including us! We hold you in our hearts, and in that Heart which holds us all. Much love, from Joyce and Bruce

Photo shared: William R Squire (2).jpg

Fri, 21 Oct 2016 05:59:08 EDT