Sadly, we announce the passing of our beloved William David Hipwell, born October 8, 1925 in Chilliwack, BC. He passed away suddenly on May 2, 2011 in Victoria. Bill is survived by his loving wife, Karen of 39 years; daughter, Joy Babiki; grandchildren, Sunny and Justin; son, Jim (Diane); grandchildren, Sarah Logan (Ashley), Chad, Ryan (Kate); daughter, Jill Scott and son, James (Sharon); grandson, Finn; brother, Dick (Sue) of Campbell River; sister-in-law, Joyce Dyble of Chilliwack and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his sister, Rosemary Tompson of Vernon and his brother, Jack of Castlegar.
Bill served in the Royal Canadian Navy in WWII. Using his service credits, he attended UBC and graduated in 1949 with a Bachelor of Pharmacy. He joined his father, Harry D. Hipwell at Hipwell’s Pharmacy in Chilliwack. Together they expanded the company and opened stores in Lytton, Hope, Agassiz and Vedder Crossing. Finally, he concentrated on the Vedder Crossing location, where he appreciated his loyal customers, whom he greeted by name, until his retirement in 1986. His love of sport prompted him to organize the first Chilliwack Community Football League and the first public swimming lessons at Cultus Lake. He had a passion for fishing, golf, tennis, football, poker and bridge. He was a proud Kinsman and Rotarian and was an avid traveller. He travelled the world and had spent the last twenty-five winters in Maui. Bill will be missed dearly; his kindness and love brought two families together.
Family and friends are invited to gather at 3:30 pm on Saturday, May 14, 2011 at the Water’s Edge Club House, 2600 Ferguson Road, Saanichton. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Victoria Epilepsy and Parkinson’s Centre, 813 Darwin Avenue, Victoria, BC V8X 2X7 or BC Cancer Agency, 2410 Lee Avenue, Victoria, BC V8R 6V5 would be appreciated. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mccallbros.com
14 Responses
My deapest condolences to you, Karen and your family. I don’t know if you remember me Karen, but Bill was my boss at Hipwells United Pharmacy in 1980 to 1982. He was an exceptional boss and I have always talked about and admired him ever since. He spoke at my wedding and offered a toast to the bride. He was someone I have always had in my thoughts and prayers through the years. He had a great impact on my life and I have often wondered how he was doing. I am so saddened to hear of his passing. I love the picture you have choosen, this is exactly how I remember Bill. When I pass the old location in Vedder, I always think of him. Just wanted you to know Bill was definitely an important male guide in my life, sort of a father figure away from home. I loved him and everything he did for me as an employee in your pharmacy…..he will definitely be missed.
My sincere condolences,
Tammie Carr (nee Dreaddy)
Karen and family’
So sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. He certainly left his mark on Chilliwack.
Our condolences.
Owen and Jacqui Nelmes
To Karen and family;
I am deeply saddened at the news of Bill’s passing. My Dad, Bob Boyd, worked with Harry D. and Bill for his entire career.
I always enjoyed working with Bill in the Chilliwack and Vedder Crossing stores when I was a teenager.
I also enjoyed meeting with Bill at the Kihei/Wailea Rotary Club breakfasts, and golfing with him at El Aire (Silversword), where I was never able to beat him.
Always smiling, always friendly, Bill was a real gentleman, who will be missed by all who had the good fortune to meet him
My sincere condolences..
Doug Boyd, Squamish.
We are all very sad to hear the news of Bill’s passing. We so enjoyed visiting with you both in Maui this year. Bill’s sharp wit and kind disposition will be sorely missed. You were the very best neighbours with my Mom for those many years at Water’s Edge and we consider that such a blessing. Please know that we will keep your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Colleen, Allan, Grady & Joelle