It is with deep sadness that the family of Bill Calvert announce his passing after a brief, but critical illness, on Saturday, March 9, 2019, at the age of 77 years. Bill will be lovingly cherished by his wife of 52 years, Sandy and his children, Erin (David), Paige (Jerry, predeceased) and Ryan (Alisha). Bill will also be fondly remembered by his treasured grandchildren Noah and Cora, and by his extended family and dear friends.
Bill received his Bachelor of Science in Forestry from the University of New Brunswick in 1965, followed by his Master of Science in Wildlife Biology and Park Planning from Acadia University in 1969. As part of his thesis, he wrote the Master Plan for Algonquin Provincial Park. Since then he held several posts with the Ministry of Natural Resources including Assistant Director of the Conservation Authorities Branch, Provincial Park Supervisor for Southern Ontario, District Manager in Chapleau and Chief Naturalist of Algonquin Park. He also held senior executive positions with the Government of Ontario including Assistant Deputy Minister with the Ministry of Government Services, Executive Director in the Cabinet Office and Regional Director for Northwestern Ontario with the Ministry of Northern Affairs. Bill enjoyed a 20+ year career as the Chief Administrative Officer of the District Municipality of Muskoka. In his retirement, Bill undertook varied, part-time consulting assignments for provincial and municipal governments specializing in management and natural resources consulting, including co-chairing the Algonquin Land Claim. Most recently he contributed his business acumen as a Board member to the Frontenac Mortgage Investment Corporation.
Bill’s passion and respect for wildlife and conservation fuelled his ongoing stewardship and exploration of Algonquin Park. Since his teenage years, Bill led family members and close friends to his favourite fishing lakes, campsites and vistas while identifying wildflowers and birdsong along the way. Bill meticulously kept track of the distance he solo portaged his canoe, and recently calculated that the distance he had carried his canoe in Algonquin Park was the equivalent to him portaging it across Canada.
In addition to being an expert angler, Bill was an avid hunter. As captain for the Lostwater Lake Club he led a group of men on many successful hunting expeditions.
With intense practice and passion for the sport, Bill was a scratch golfer playing typically 150+ games a year and achieving seven lifetime hole-in-ones.
He loved his family. He loved life, and he lived it well.
Donations in memory of Bill may be made to The Friends of Algonquin Park, which he helped establish alongside his close “Park family” in 1983. Alternatively, support may be made to the Huntsville Hospital Foundation, a crucial cornerstone dedicated to improving health care services for the residents of his beloved Muskoka and Algonquin.
www.mitchellfuneralhome.ca
Brian Maltman
My condolences to Bill’s family and those close to him. It is especially hard to lose someone who lived life so fully and contributed so much. I learned much from Bill, from his roles as the first Chair of the Friends of Algonquin Park, and his work with the Algonquin Land claim, where he assembled a group of advisors to assist Ontario during the negotiations that led to an agreement-in-principle. His quiet influence was always effective, bringing people with varied interests together for a common purpose. He will be well remembered.
George and Mary Mooroz
I’m sorry to see him go so soon; It was a great shock! I was fortunate to work with Bill when the MNR office was established in Huntsville in 1973. I remember his insights into issues and policy concerns associated with Algonquin Park. He was a great mentor for me. His support for the Park and the Provincial Park System will be missed. Regardless where his career took him he never forgot his commitment to the Park.
Our sympathy and thoughts are with you Sandy and your family.
George and Mary Moroz
Frank Ogens
Dear Sandy,
I was fortunate to be a part of the Florida golf “family” for a couple of years. During that brief period of time, Bill was a wonderful person to have known. His easy manner, unorthodox golf swing, the concessions to the wind directions in figuring out your next shot, and of course all the references to the fabulous nature surrounding us. He will be sorely missed. My sincere condolences to the entire family!
Sincerely,
Frank Ogens
Centreville, MD 22617
Linda Ann Jewell
Sincere condolences to you, Sandy, and your family. What a shock for you all! You are in our thoughts and prayers as you move forward.
Linda Ann & David Jewell
Bob Schork
We , “Bill’s Florida Golf Family ” are so heartbroken at loosing him that words cant express the sadness we are feeling … We only had the pleasure of knowing Bill for a relatively short time compared to his other lifelong friends . At the same time we all became very close to him… His quiet nature, wonderful sence of humor and, the most unorthodox golf swing in history were things we will never forget ..
All the mornings we would pick him up to head to play .. We could always expect him to be early and waiting with his clubs .. The car rides to the courses with him pointing out wild life.. Not only pointing them out but giving us a lesson in feeding ,behavior, migration patterns, life span .. etc …
Sandy and family, please know that we all will miss Bill so much and we are better men for having had him in our lives …
Sincerely,
Bob Schork
Elaine , Mike Barnes
Dear Sandy and family:
We were shocked to hear of Bill’s passing. We both fondly remember our friendship with you both in Whitney. May the wonderful memories you have with Bill help you through this sad time.
Sincerely. Mike and Elaine Barnes
Keith Laughton
Sandy and family,
My condolences during this time of loss. I met Bill only a few times in passing, but through Ryan and Alisha, I often heard tales of his adventures and presence as a caring father and grandfather. Undoubtedly, his legendary memory will live on, and his life lived will continue to inspire.
My thoughts with you all,
Keith
Cindy and Colin Davies
We were so shocked and sad to hear of the loss of Bill. We had only got to know you last winter here in Florida but we were looking forward to spending time with you again this year. We are deeply sorry for your loss Sandy. Our deepest condolences to you and your family
Mary Spring
From our family to yours, we send much love.
Mary and Don Spring
Suzanne and Sheldon Jacobs
Dear Sandy and Family,
Bill’s death came as quite a shock to us. We got to know Bill several years ago. He quickly became a good friend and, in many ways, was a mentor to me. His vast knowledge provided our group with expertise and vision as we grew. His genuine concern for acquaintances and enjoyment of life were recognized by those who were fortunate to know him.
We extend heartfelt condolences to you and your family.
Roderick (Rory) MacKay
Dear Sandy and family,
Sandy Barr and I are so very sorry for your great personal loss. We are also sorry that Ontario and Algonquin Park have lost such a great supporter. In his work, Bill has left a lasting legacy to the people of this province.
Rory got to know Bill’s wonderful ability to recall and tell good stories about his work and about people in and about the Park last year when Bill was commenting on the draft of Rory’s book on Park history. Bill gave much time toward making sure the chapters on the planning involved in the Master Plan and about the land claim were acceptable history. Rory is extremely grateful that he had Bill’s help and that he got to experience Bill’s generosity first hand.
Sandy, you and your family are in our thoughts as you begin to cope with your great loss.
Sandy Barr and Rory MacKay
Alison Moy (nee Young)
I am so shocked and saddened to hear of Mr. Calvert’s passing. I have so many memories from so many years, so long ago… My deepest, heartfelt condolences to the whole family. I am so very sorry for your loss.
Pat Kuiack
Dear Sandy and Family,
We are so sorry for your loss,
Bob always talk’s fondly about their day’s of hunting and fishing,
He will be missed, you are are in our hearts and prayer’s
Again we are so for your loss,
Bob and Pat Kuiack.,