William Griffiths

William “Bill” James Griffiths passed away peacefully on Friday, August 19th, 2022, at Andy’s House Hospice in Port Carling. Born in Liverpool, England, on the 23rd of January 1938 to William and Eva Griffiths (née Gratton), Bill is predeceased by his wife Eileen Griffiths (née McDermaid) and is survived by his brother Brian (Dorothy); his children Alan (Phyllis), Alison (Tim), and Keith (Nicola); his grandsons Matthew (Trish), Peter (Melissa), Michael, Liam, Owen, and Adam; and his great-grandchildren Kieran, Jackson, Nora-Lea, and Adeline.

In his time Bill was a sailor, musician, and lifelong supporter of the Liverpool Football Club. At 16, Bill enlisted in the British Royal Navy and served on HMS Venus, HMS Duchess, and HMS Ark Royal, attaining the position of Chief Petty Officer. Bill was well known as a traveler, being stationed in both Northern Ireland and Malta before emigrating to Canada in 1967. He and Eileen eventually chose to split their time between homes in Elmira, Ontario, and Madeira Beach, Florida.

Prior to enlisting Bill had taken up playing the guitar; a passion he carried during his naval service and beyond. He made a name for himself as a member of a number of bands — notably the Kitchener group, Quadrac — and as the entrepreneur behind Karaoke Showtime. Bill’s aptitude and passion for entertainment ensured that his home was always filled with music and excitement, and it should be known that he always had a story to tell when he wasn’t off living a new one.

The family would like to thank everyone at Andy’s House for their kind and compassionate care.

A private family service and cremation has taken place. A larger family celebration is planned for the near future. As an expression of sympathy, donations to Andy’s House Hospice are greatly appreciated.