It is with profound sadness that we announce the death of William Alexander Selkirk on May 8th, 2023 at the Ottawa General Hospital. He died suddenly, after a brief illness. William was beloved by his entire family. Brothers: Don (Heather), Roland (Pattie) and Gordon (Helen), and their families: Andrew & Christina (Megan, Emily, Ava, Ethan), Teena & Alex (Amelia, Jillian), Don Jr. & Cathy (Evan, Jason), Angela & Paul (Dylan, Rhys), and Richard (Austin). Willie will also be missed by Jennifer and many other family and friends.
Fifty years ago, Willie was in an accident that left him a quadriplegic but, despite this, he lived a great life, filled with accomplishments, 35 years of which were lived in his beloved Daly Co-op in Ottawa. Willie worked for 25 years for Transport Canada. He was also, among his many talents, a computer programmer, avid photographer, an accomplished artist, and had a wicked wit and sense of humour. He was a model of loyalty, proved by his tenacious support of his beloved Toronto Maple Leafs!
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Emmanuel United Church or charity of your choice in Willie's name.
A funeral service will be held from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM on 2023-05-22 at Emmanuel United Church, 691 Smyth Rd, Ottawa, K1G 1N7. A reception will be held from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM on 2023-05-22 at Daly Co-op, 2410 Southvale Cres, Ottawa, K1B 5K2
Livre de visiteurs
Donald and Heather Selkirk
Marjory McLeod
I am so sorry to hear the loss of Willie. Our family remembers him alot as he came and stayed with the McLeod clan on the farm near Pembroke, Ont. I will always remember Willie and the rest of his family - Our dad and Willie suffered the same type of injury that left both of them quadriplegics and both of them used to communicate with each other earlier on.
Love to you Willie.... rest in peace!
Cousin Marj
Gertie and Ivan Blake
Willy, your positive attitude and artistic talent were inspiring!
William Smith
I was the minister at Emmanuel for 19 years and brought him into membership there. We had many visits over the years. He taught me about computers and I have some of his sketches. He was a friend, an inspiration, a comic, and a committed Christian. Willie remains in my heart and will not be forgotton
Robert Gord Selkirk
I hope you are fully at peace and using all you limbs after 50 years of being a Quad. Family and many, many friends will miss you. Especially me! Lots of LOVE brother and I was very fortunate to have you in my life.
Anne Brown
I shall miss your presence Willie. Our family met you on the farm near Pembroke and we spent time with you in summer. I remember how you always used to sneak into the kitchen and pinch off some of Mom’s homemade bread dough and then giggle as Mom chased you out. You always were in motion. Your accident paralyzed you the same as our dad, but you never lost your humor and dry wit. You are now whole again…. Miss you
Cousin Anne Brown née McLeod
Kathy Jones
You will be missed Bill
Barb and Ed
It has been many years since we have seen one another, but when I think on William, I recall a smile as wide as the sky. Despite all the struggles he endured, William always found a song to sing. What an inspiration! Our heartfelt condolences to the very broad family of William Alexander Selkirk.
Barbara Stollery
Dear, dear Bill; you had a life, well lived! You always saw the best in everyone and you challenged yourself to be the best. You were a multi-talented individual as evidenced by all you "tried on for size" and made a success. I have not seen you for a long time, but the impact you had on me, in terms of moving forward, no matter what, had a profound impact on me so many years ago. May you travel well in the universe! I send my very deepest condolences to your extended family.
Tyler Sage
RIP William! I offer my condolences to the entire family. It was a pleasure to know you these last 12 years! You will be missed.
You are missed william