Bill Visentin peacefully passed away June 6 with his family at his side at the age of 86.
He was born Orlando William Visentin in Coppercliff (Sudbury) Ontario September 5, 1927. Bill worked for Sears in several capacities and postings in Ontario before being transferred to Calgary, Alberta in 1968. He had an entrepreneurial spirit and left Sears to pursue other business careers. He was an integral part of the Roman Catholic Church community and a fourth degree member of the Knights of Columbus. In 1989 he moved to Cranbrook, BC where he and Norma established the successful Lawn Doctor business. He continued to build the business while at the same time volunteering for many activities in Cranbrook. These included ushering at hockey games and the Key City Theatre, helping the Cranbrook Food Bank, St. Mary’s School, countless nights with Citizens On Patrol, walked many parade routes in the Kootenays with United Commercial Travellers and directing visitors at the East Kootenay Regional Hospital as part of the Hospital Auxiliary. Bill also took pride in his community by sitting on two different committees with the City of Cranbrook. In 2006 he retired handing the keys to the Lawn Doctor over to his son Paul and daughter in law (Mance). In retirement he focused more on his music and volunteering. Music was a passion with Bill from singing in choirs, playing in dance bands and entertaining around the campfire while living in Ontario. His love of music followed him to BC with the Lost Dog Singers, the Big Band, Don Davies Trio and other bands that needed an accomplished bass player. Many people in Kootenays have been crooned and soothed by his Sinatra style voice. But beyond and above all this he had a positive work ethic and devotion to family.
He was predeceased in 2006 by Norma Visentin (wife of 55 years), Attilio Visentin (father), Luigia Biscaro (mother), Marina Moro (stepmother). He is survived by his children David Visentin (Molly) of Rocky Mountain House, Alberta, Paul Visentin (Mance) of Cranbrook, BC, Catherine McKenzie (Bruce) of Kimberley, BC, sister Monica Favretto (Peter) of Delhi, ON, grandchildren Keith, Ryan, Kate, Cory, Matthew, Laura and Holly, great grandchildren Adalyn and Sullivan, several nieces and nephews in Ontario and BC, and special friends – Bessie Tegart and family of Cranbrook.
A visitation and prayers for Bill will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church on Tuesday, June 10 at 7:00 pm. His funeral mass will be held at Christ the Servant Catholic Church on Wednesday, June 11 at 4:00 pm. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Cranbrook Food Bank Society, 104 - 8th Avenue South, Cranbrook, BC, V1C 2K5.