Obituary of William John Purchase

PURCHASE, William John, Age 79, Halifax. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of William (aka Bill, Willy and Buzz) Purchase at home on Friday, October 7th, 2022. Bill was born March 7th, 1943 to the late William and Mary (Smith) Purchase. Bill is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Bernice (Murphy), sister Lillian (Robert) Lafferty, daughters Leslie (Clyf Hull), Shari (Andrew Smith), sons Kevin (Melissa) and Joseph, granddaughters Ella and Mackenzie Purchase, step grandson, Keegan Mertens, Bill's extended Murphy family, several nieces, nephews and cousins, and a large circle of wonderful friends. He was predeceased by siblings Freeman (Marian), Doreen (Laurie] Hendsbee, Alice, Vera, and Barbara (Judd) Hendsbee. Bill was the life of the party with his great sense of humour and talented guitar playing. He loved music, dancing and a good, or bad, joke. He was a wonderful husband, dedicated family man and a great father, always very involved in coaching his sons' baseball teams, and never missed one of their hockey games. He was also known for the wonderful ice rinks he created in their backyard. He spent lots of time adoring his girls, taking them to the movies from the time they were little and sharing silly jokes. He was also a great fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs and Blue Jays and he was very happy with the Jays recent wild card birth. Bill had a long career in purchasing for the hospitality industry and with APSEA. He was actively involved in the RCL Vimy 27 as Treasurer and President until his health began to decline. He will be missed forever but he leaves behind many happy memories. Cremation has taken place and a service will be held on Friday, October 14th at 2 pm at TJ Tracey Funeral Home, 71 McQuade Crescent, Bayers Lake. Reception to follow. Burial to take place Saturday, October 15th, 1 pm at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Heatherton, N.S. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or a charity of your choice.