PDG Lion Bill King, 1948-2024
In Memoriam: Lion Bill King (BBQ Bill) December 22, 1948 – October 11, 2024
William Fredrick King, affectionately known as “Bar-Be-Que Bill,” was deeply respected by his family, peers, and the community. His love for cooking was evident, often seen shopping for fresh ingredients to prepare culinary delights for his wife Beverly and their guests. His commitment to his passion was even displayed on his license plate: “BBQ Bill”.
Bill’s service to our community was extensive. He volunteered on the Town Of Pelham’s Canada Day committee and the “Communities In Bloom” program, earning the Volunteer Of The Year award from the town. Upon his passing, the town honoured him by lowering flags to half-mast at municipal buildings. Since 2011, Bill was an active member of the Fabulous Fenwick Lions Club, and at the time of his passing, he was our club President. His soft-spoken nature commanded respect; when he spoke at club meetings, everyone listened. His words were always filled with praise, diplomacy, wisdom, and the occasional corny pun that we’ll all miss dearly. Lion Bill was awarded the Melvin Jones Fellowship Award from Lions Canada, one of the most respected and coveted honours.
Bill moved to Canada from England at the age of nine, settling in Scarborough with his parents. In high school, he was the bass player and backup singer in a band called “The Crypt.” The band won the battle of the bands in Toronto, leading to an unforgettable performance as the pre-show entertainment for The Rolling Stones at Maple Leaf Gardens in 1965. This experience also included the honour of meeting the Stones backstage.
Throughout his career, Bill’s excellent people skills shone brightly. He managed three Costco stores, work he immensely enjoyed despite the early hours. He also served as the store designer for Nygard International and the visual presentation manager for central Canada at Reitman’s International.
Bill was a man of many talents with a multitude of hobbies, including gardening, interior design, bird watching, music, sports, and travel. He and his wife Beverly enjoyed many winter vacations in Costa Rica.
Lion Bill King lived a full, rich life. His traits—empathy, kindness, integrity, and reliability—are ones we can all aspire to. He listened without judgment, extended a helping hand without expecting anything in return, and stood by his values even when it was difficult. He celebrated diversity and treated everyone with dignity, touching all our lives in profound ways.
Bill passed away at home on October 11, 2024, at the age of 75.
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
“I was helping out with the Santa Clause parade when the parade marshal, Fred Disher passed away. Bill King kindly stepped up to help Ken Angle and I organize the parade. He gave us clip boards to help us with the parade marshaling duties. I will continue to use them and remember him fondly. Lion Bill was a kind, generous and positive man and will be sorely missed by many in the community. My heart is breaking for Beverley.”
Lion Trevor Philbrick
“Lion Bill would often, take time to acknowledge any contribution that I made to the club. He really made me feel that my efforts here are appreciated.”
Lion Mike Manzoni
A really good friend and a great Lion.
Lion Melvin Jackson
BBQ Bill and I often sat behind each other at different tables during club meetings. Once the meeting began, we turned our chairs to sit beside each other. Then the fun started. Our side comments kept us in stitches. He would always be in good humour. (Not the ice cream) (an example).
Lion Bill was not just a Lion, he was my friend.
Lion Todd Mowder
Lion Bill was a cool Dude. He always put others ahead of himself. A quiet leader, he lived with purpose and honour. He had a big impact on me and I’ll miss him dearly. He was a hard worker with a successful business mind… as a world traveller he always was interested in hearing about where you had been. He was a very big asset to the Lion’s Club. We are all heart broken with his early departure.
Xoxo HRL
