William (Bill) Joseph McCormick

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, William (Bill) Joseph McCormick, who passed away peacefully in Calgary, Alberta, on August 9, 2025.

Bill was born on July 28, 1945, in Strabane, Co. Tyrone, Northern Ireland, to Joseph (Joe) and Elizabeth (Elsie) McCormick. The youngest of four siblings, he was predeceased by his parents, his brother Wilfred (Caroline) McCormick, and his sister Olive (Will) Carson. He is survived by his sister, Iris (Tom) Sawyers, in Ireland.

Bill spent his early years on the family farm in Doneyloop, Co. Donegal. At age 11, after the sale of the farm, he and his parents moved to another farm outside Omagh, Co. Tyrone, where he completed his schooling.

In his early twenties, Bill immigrated to Canada to join his brother Wilfred in Calgary, Alberta. It was there he built his lifelong home, marrying Sandra and raising their three children, Kimberley (Keith), Ryan (Katherine), and Àran (Meghan).

He also took great pride in welcoming six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren into the McCormick clan. His grandchildren, Keara (David), Dainéal, Liam, Carleigh, Connor, and Evelyn, and great-grandchildren, Atley and Westleigh, adored their grandpa.

Bill worked for many years at the Co-op Fertilizer plant in southeast Calgary. A talented mechanic and true “jack of all trades,” there was little he could not build or repair. His work ethic and dedication provided a good life for his family.

Beyond his work, Bill had a love for the outdoors and creative pursuits. He enjoyed camping, bicycle trips in Alberta and Ireland, and capturing moments through photography. He also expressed his creativity through painting and had a deep appreciation for nature, taking special pride in caring for the land in Beynon, Alberta, finding peace and joy in its beauty.

Those who knew Bill cherished his quick wit and storytelling. He could tell hilarious tales or jokes for hours, often with perfectly timed twists that left everyone laughing. His warmth and humor made people feel at ease, and his stories will be long remembered.

In Calgary, Bill formed lifelong friendships with his best friends, Mike and Rick, both of whom predeceased him. Together, the trio shared countless adventures, mischief, and laughter.

Bill will be deeply missed by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and close friends, as well as by many others who were touched by his kindness and generosity. He had special compassion for those facing hardship and was always ready to lend a hand.

His legacy is one of laughter, storytelling, and love — a man who made life brighter for everyone around him. We will miss you dearly, Dad. We will love you always!

An open house and celebration of Bill’s life will be held on Sunday, August 17, 2025, beginning at 2:00 pm in the Tullimore Room at Limerick’s Traditional Public House – 7304 Macleod Trail South, Calgary, Alberta.

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