Bill (Edwin William) Mitchell

“Missing someone is sadness wrapped in the blessing of having known them”. 

Bill Mitchell passed on August 14th, 2026.  He was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia; and from the time he was a young man he was interested in journalism and wanted to pursue a career in broadcasting. He studied (via correspondence) how to become a reporter, radio, and media personality.

His broadcasting career began at a small radio station in Amherst, Nova Scotia where he called play by play for the Amherst Ramblers Senior hockey team. From there, he moved to CTV and CBC in Halifax, then became a national reporter for Newfoundland with CBC. One of his most memorable assignments was his interview with French actress Brigitte Bardot, conducted on an ice floe as she protested the killing of baby seals – a story that made the national news; the seal pup kill eventually shut down after that.

From St. Johns, NFLD onto his appointment as manager of CBHT television station in Halifax. His career then took him west to Edmonton, as executive producer of the CBC supper hour news and then to Toronto in a management role with The National, followed by becoming the station manager in Saskatoon, and then back to Edmonton to oversee both the Edmonton and Calgary television stations. He finished his career in Victoria, where in 1994 he took on a Senior Communications position with the CBC Host Broadcasters for the Commonwealth Games – closing out a career that took him to 10 provinces.

After retirement Bill went to UVIC to complete a degree he had begun back in Newfoundland and Halifax.  He also studied Spanish as a second language.  He never stopped learning. His love of sports was a lifelong passion both as a participant and spectator.  He was a goalkeeper for Juvenile, Junior, and Senior teams in Nova Scotia for many years.  He also excelled in fastball as a pitcher and in his prime many of his pitches clocked at 100 mph. He never missed watching a Blue Jays game. He retired to a life of golf; often playing 3 times a week at Royal Colwood where he was a member for 32 years.

Retirement also allowed Bill to focus on his passion for cooking. He became known for his thoughtful care packages of homemade seafood chowder and mushroom soup. His culinary gifts left a lasting impression, prompting one close friend to declare it “the best meal I’ve ever eaten”, although they said this each time they ate one of Bill’s meals.

But his most important passion was sharing his journey in life with the love of his life, Cheryl.  They created lifelong memories together that included trips to Europe, Mexico, USA, and throughout Canada.

Please raise a glass of your favourite and toast Bill – to the life he lived and excelled in! – To the love of my love – his favourite saying was always  “just you and me Babe” – forever my love – may you rest in peace.  I will love you forever!!!!

Condolences may be offered to the family below.

McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com

This obituary is the property of ‘Cheryl Bejcar’ and may not be reproduced, distributed, or altered in any way without prior written consent.

15 Responses

  1. I will be forever grateful for all the memories I have of Bill as part of our family. Bill always made me and other family feel special. I was able to enjoy golf courses in Victoria, Palm Desert and Mexico because Bill made it happen. He also used his culinary skills by creating his specialties whenever anyone visited their home. His motto was …if you are part of Cheryl’s life you are also part of my life. His passing has left a hole in the lives of many. Bill you are and will be forever missed. Thanks Bill for all you gave to us….you will not be forgotten.!!

  2. Dear Cheryl,
    We were deeply saddened to hear about the passing of your beloved Bill. Please accept our heartfelt condolences during this incredibly difficult time.
    His successful and distinguished career in broadcasting is a wonderful testament to his talent, dedication, and passion for his work. His contributions certainly touched many people, and his professional legacy will surely be remembered.
    Our thoughts are with you as you navigate this profound loss. May the many wonderful memories you shared together bring you comfort and strength in the days ahead. Barry & Trisha Ramer

  3. Very sad to hear Bill has passed. Condolences to you, Cheryl. Like Ed Watson, I think I owe a debt of gratitude to Bill for acts behind the scenes. At CBXT-TV in Edmonton he gave me the incentive to resign and move to Vancouver where I was able to continue as a television editor among other broadcast jobs. Had the pleasure of accidentally meeting him in Victoria while I was on an assignment and was able to thank him. I’m heartened to hear he had what sounds like an excellent retirement.

  4. Sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. Bill gave me a CBC career break in the early 80s when he hired me in Edmonton. I was inexperienced and surrounded by seasoned journalists in Toronto. Bill told me I’d get lots of experience really quick in a regional operation. I did. By the way, back then I don’t think I ever addressed Bill as Bill. My condolences to Cheryl. We crossed paths at CBC Edmonton.

  5. Dear Cheryl,

    Sincere condolences on the passing of your dearest Bill. Your beautiful obituary perfectly captures his life, his passions and his love. We crossed paths many times during the years at CBC. Bill was at his best during our time working together on the CBC Host Broadcaster Team for the 1994 Victoria Commonwealth Games. May he rest in peace. Ron

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