In Celebration of

William Herman Karner

February 25, 1940 -  June 2, 2025


Bill was born at St. Michael’s Hospital on Feb. 25, 1940. He is predeceased by his parents John and Anna, and his brother John. He will be greatly missed by his loving sister Ann and his many friends.

Bill led a long and wonderful life. He graduated from De La Salle College Oaklands in 1957 with a science award and continued his studies at St. Michael’s College (U. of T.), graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree. During his summer holidays, he worked at the Banff Springs Hotel as room clerk, reaching the position of Chief Room Clerk in his final year.

Bill went on to Teacher’s College. He taught English and Drama at Vincent Massey High School, his first school. He was one of the first teachers to introduce Canadian Literature in Grade 13. Bill helped with the founding of the Etobicoke School of the Arts where he was then accepted as a teacher of English and Drama. Here he petitioned the Board to include a Headship for Drama, to which they agreed. Bill loved teaching and enjoyed seeing his students develop their creativity, talent and wonderful presentations.

Bill also loved cooking and making special dishes for company. He enjoyed gardening, travelling the world, bird watching, and going to concerts, movies, art exhibits and baseball games. Everyone and everything was of interest to him. Bill had a special love for helping people as a member of the St. Vincent de Paul Society.
Special thanks to the staff of Bayshore Weston Gardens and Humber River Hospital.

Friends may call at the Turner & Porter “Peel” Chapel, 2180 Hurontario St., (Hwy. 10, N of the QEW), Mississauga, on Sunday, June 8, 2025 from 3-8 pm.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Parish, Mississauga, on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at 11 a.m.

Interment Assumption Catholic Cemetery, Mississauga.

For those who wish, donations may be made donations may be made to the St. Vincent de Paul Society, the Alzheimer’s Society or the charity of your choice. Donations and Online Condolences may be made using this website.

Guestbook 

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Marion Speziale (Friend)

Entered June 4, 2025 from Burlington

Bill was a very talented, loving and inspiring person whose interests were so wide reaching. I will always remember he and John doing such wonderful slide show presentations in the basement after their many trips. Dinner and Tarragon will be one of my memories as well.....even though both brothers dosed off a few times during the productions.
My thoughts and prayers with Ann as well who lovingly supported Bill and John during their health journeys.

Maureen Somerville (Friend since 1970)

Entered June 5, 2025 from Toronto

I haven't seen or spoken to Bill since before the pandemic. I will miss his knowledge, his guidance and his humour. He was an incredible friend.

Denise Araiche (Friend)

Entered June 6, 2025

Dear Ann. I am so sorry for your loss. Your brother was so wonderful. I was glad to meet him on our trip to France. He is included in my prayers.

Cathy (former student)

Entered June 6, 2025

Mr. Karner was an amazing teacher. He pushed you to not only do your best but be your best! He was my drama teacher for a number of years. We did have our artist differences at times but I always knew he knew best and respected him. I have many fond memories of him.
God Bless

Bill Pryde (friend/colleague)

Entered June 6, 2025 from Mississauga

Bill was a great teacher, especially of what was then called Theatre Arts.
He was super company, particularly in the Massey men's staffroom and at the poker table!

Photos 

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