Another soul has returned to Heaven recently. Bill had impressed me so that I am compelled to say a few words about him to remind me why…..

The Cheveldave’s were the family that my brother Russel got to know well when he married Tillie, his life long partner. Bill was Tillie’s relative and they seemed to make that relationship close as Bill and Lola would keep themselves in close company on many occasions. I soon learned why and so it was that Marilyn and I became part of this association.

Bill was a Machinist with Cominco Ltd and soon became very respected in that he was part of a recruiting group that Cominco sent everywhere to accept the 600 or more Tradesmen that they needed for their new Zinc Plant Construction at Trail, B.C. He was part of their excellent Apprenticeship Program as well. Construction stories were always of interest to me and so there was never enough time to “quench” our mutual interest. Yes, we drank wine, too.

I was always interested in whether he was related to the Cheveldayoffs that I knew in Blaine Lake, Saskatchewan. He said that the “blood line ran out” but that he had met a Cheveldayoff from there and that they had exchanged visits that were much appreciated by both families.

Bill was always great at social functions because he participated and was part of the fun. Yes, he bragged about his wine making skills and was always ready to share and taste his vintage with friends.

What I enjoyed most was his sincere honesty with no attempt to distort his many talents and capabilities. I recall that he brought out his trusted Machinist’s Level to set the slate surface on the Pool Table that I obtained from Silver City Billiards in Trail. “Right on!” That was the only acceptable trade comment. Yes, we also had wine.

When Marilyn and I returned from the Coast in 1993, Bill joined my brother Russel for many hours of renovation work on our residence in Genelle, B.C.

Bill and Lola travelled and enjoyed many times on their motorhome. I felt that I had been with them because on their return, Bill would go into detail on their experiences along with people they had met. It was much more economical way to travel for Marilyn and I. A real “perk” was to share the wine as the stories unfolded.

All the research on Green City (the lost Silver Mine) by Salmo, B.C., could not have been complete without the daring challenge that Bill undertook to drive up that “goat trail” that was the only access to that “Campground”

We will miss you, Bill, but I am sure that God has already found a spot for you with your friends. Say hello to all of them and have a wine with brother Russel for me.

Posted January 01, 2021 by EWV