In Celebration of

William "Bill" Bain

October 24, 1935 - July 21, 2025

Husband, father, grandfather, healthcare leader, athlete, author, proud son of Scotland.

It is with great sadness and deep love that we announce the passing of William “Bill” Bain, who died peacefully on July 21, 2025, surrounded by family.

Bill leaves behind Eleanor, his beloved wife of 64 years; adoring children Mark (Stephanie) and Linda (Steve Smith); brother Brett; cherished grandchildren Eva (Zander McGillivray), Margo, Seona, Braden (Katie Nevins), Cameron (Britney Ste. Croix), and Devin; and many loved extended family members across Canada, Scotland, England and Australia.

Born in Dumbarton, Scotland to William and Christina (née Doig), Bill won the Scottish high jump championship at age 16, was a top football (soccer) goalie, served in the Royal Air Force and then began a long and impactful career in both public and private health care, including serving as Assistant Deputy Minister of Health in Ontario and as Chief Executive of the Royal Brompton Hospital in London England.

Bill married Eleanor, the love of his life, in 1961 and they settled in Edinburgh where their two beloved children Mark and Linda were born. He was a passionate soccer coach for both his children, founder of the Pickering Village Soccer Club, avid player on the Pickering Old Timers Soccer (POTS), and a lifelong Chelsea FC supporter.

In retirement, Bill fulfilled his dream of writing, publishing three novels and a memoir. He and Eleanor travelled widely, always side by side, enthusiastically soaking up all life offered and believing all experience is good experience.

Special thanks to niece Dawn Govan for her devoted care in Bill’s final weeks, and to the medical staff at Toronto General Hospital and Princess Margaret Hospital for their caring and compassionate care.

Visitation will be held from 5 – 7 pm on Thursday July 24, 2025 at Turner & Porter Butler Chapel, 4933 Dundas Street West, Etobicoke ON. Funeral service will be held at 1 pm on Friday July 25, 2025 at Kingsway-Lambton United Church, 85 The Kingsway, Etobicoke ON, followed by a reception. Private family-only burial on Saturday, July 26, 2025. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a charity of your choice.

"Oh Flower of Scotland, when will we see your like again?"

Guestbook

(5 of 20)

Gary and Sue Smith (Co father in law.)

Entered July 22, 2025 from Oshawa on

Bill was always so vibrant and full of energy and so very proud of his grandchildren. We shared many family gatherings over the years and he will be greatly missed. Rest in peace deer heart.

Johnnie & Beth Hildebrandt (Father and Mother of son Mark’s wife…Stephanie.)

Entered July 22, 2025 from Barry’s Bay Ontario

Bill was a very kind, caring man….wonderful husband and father, and a lot of fun to be with. It’s a very tough time for all, and our sincere sympathies to Eleanor, Mark and Linda.

Jane Watkins (nee Smith) (He was my soccer coach)

Entered July 22, 2025 from Oshawa, Ontario

I always remember Mr Bain as the most kindest and calmest soccer coach of our Pickering Village Aces.

Rest in peace.

Gary Britton (Friend of Bill's son, Mark)

Entered July 22, 2025 from Victoria, BC

I have heard a great deal about Mr. Bain over the years. He was and is an inspiration and a very good man. When will we see his like again?

Jennifer Kaiser (Friend)

Entered July 22, 2025 from Oshawa

I’m so sorry to hear of your loss of dear Billy. He was a source of joy with a ready smile on his face. Yeah, he have eternal rest and be with our Lord. God bless all his family and the love they openly shared.