Celebration of Bill's life will be held in the lounge at the Royal Canadian Legion, Br. 87 on August 30, 2025 from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
It is with great sadness the Righton family announce the passing of William “Bill” Righton on April 22, 2025.
Bill is predeceased by his parents Frederick and Mildred Righton, his siblings Rupert, Keith, Kathleen and Margaret.
Bill is survived by his loving wife Eileen(Casey), his sister Joan Sloan, his sister-in-law Sheila Righton, his children Pamela (Merle) Tubman, Patricia (Stewart) Carmichael, Penny (Geoff) Cory, Peggy Righton-McIntyre, Peter (Vikki) Righton and Patrick Righton. Also left to mourn are Bill’s grandchildren Amy Righton, Matt Cory, Josh Cory, Meg Tubman, Julian Carmichael, Chad McIntyre, Madeline Tubman, Chelsea McIntyre, William Carmichael, Katelyn McIntyre, Will Tubman, Samuel Righton and his great grandchildren Kaylee Cory and Peyton Earl.
Bill was born October 15th, 1933, in Iroquois Falls, Ontario. He lived at 105 Devonshire St as a child. Bill grew up next to the Abitibi Pulp and Paper facility, which was the largest newsprint manufacturing operation in the world. He attended school until the age of 15 when he decided to "jump out the cloakroom window and get on with his life." Through those early years, before marrying Eileen, he held the following jobs: working in the Abitibi Mill drug store and grocery store, helping at the Iroquois Falls Hotel Library, he was an Imperial Oil Company delivery man as well as a White Rose Oil Company delivery man. Bill married Eileen on September 26, 1957. After their marriage, Bill worked for Power Tel as a hotline worker and heavy equipment operator, Arctic Propane with Norbert Grenier, operating the propane plant and servicing, John Wlad where he operated heavy construction equipment, Abe Rosenbaum as a wholesale confectionary supplies delivery man, Al Pierini, repairing pinball machines, juke boxes, etc. and driving Al's band to "gigs" in Ontario and down in the States, he ran the Western Tire Store, which was the supplier of automotive parts and distributor of chain saws and the repair shop for Abitibi Forest Operations, he worked for the Canadian National Express, overseeing freight and express lines as well as the ONR Bus Lines driving highway coach buses on charter trips and local routes.
Bill and Eileen had five children born in Iroquois Falls: twins Pamela and Patricia, Penelope, Peggy, and Peter. Patrick was born in 1972 at the old hospital in Kirkland Lake. The family moved to Kirkland Lake in 1968, Where Dad worked at Evoy McLean as a service man for supermarket, retail and industrial refrigeration at the local hospital, Northern College, Swastika Tree Nursery and the majority of the hotels, motels and elevators in the Kirkland Lake and surrounding areas. Bill and Eileen moved out to Sesekinika in 1969 as Dad had many fond memories of the lake where his parents had bought a cottage in 1934.
Bill had a way with words and loved to name his buildings: the house became the Palace (Ponderosa over CB radio), and the cottage has always been known as Razona, with the second cottage on the property being called Islander. Bill became the unofficial "Mayor" of Sesekinika and always had an open door for his friends and neighbours and many a good story to tell over a "booster shot".
Dad started his own business in the early 1980s, Bill's Service and Repairs, and continued working as a one-man shop servicing the Kirkland Lake and surrounding areas in refrigeration. He purchased his pride and joy, the Blue Bird bus, also known as, "The Blue Bird of Happiness", which stored his parts and shop area, complete with generator, lighting system, television and sound system. Many a good time was had by all! Dad retired in his 80s but always found something to tinker with. Mom and Dad moved back to Kirkland Lake in the early 2000s, where they lived on Woods Street. They recently celebrated their 67th year of marital bliss.
The family would like to send their sincere thanks to the staff at Extendicare and Blanche River Health Kirkland Lake. Special thanks to Kelly Smith and Brenda Madill.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill's memory can be made to a charity of your choice.
Sympathy Messages
On behalf of my parents, Vic and Helen Brown, we offer our condolences to the family.
- Pam Turgeon, on
April 24, 2025
Hey guys ! What a loss of one of the greatest fellas I ever knew . I have many great memories of my time out in ses with your family . Many years working around kl and having Bill stop in and give me that big grin and the firmest handshakes. He used to call me the Chef De Pompier all the time . I thought it was a cool chef title . Turns out it meant “fire chief “ lol . Loved Bill . He was one of a kind . I’ll have a booster shot for him from the stage this weekend ! My dad and him are getting into trouble already I’m sure . My condolences to you all . Much Love James Taylor .
- James Taylor, on
April 24, 2025
I remember Billy well. He spent much time at our kitchen table sharing stories & meals with my Dad, Norbert Grenier.
RIP Billy!!
My sincere condolences to Casey and family.
- Carmen (Grenier) Buchanan, on
April 24, 2025
Our condolences on the loss of a great man.
His wife’s family was great friends with my dad.
In the last year or so he became my brother Paddy’s room mate at the hospital.
What stories they shared.
Thank you Bill for being kind to Paddy and looking out for him.
RIP you both are sharing heaven together I am sure .
I am sure my mom will make you that fudge you so loved.
Hugs to his family and a special hug to his wife
- Catherine (Connolly) & John Wendorf, on
April 24, 2025
We were sorry to hear of Bill's passing. With our deepest sympathies. ️
- Linda and Garry Bullen, on
April 24, 2025
My sincerest condolences to you all during this difficult time. May his many memories wrap you all with warmth and strength. ️️
May my support warm your heart
- Gina Gelinas, on
April 24, 2025
“Wilber”, as John called him, will be missed! He had a soft heart and a ready smile. Great neighbour, cook, and entertainer! My love and prayers go out to you all.
Ursula Van Oosten
- Ursula Van Oosten , on
April 24, 2025
What a Legacy he leaves behind. Met Bill while working at Gordon's, & always had a talk when walking by his house on Woods St. for many years, What a character he was, never without a joke or a story to tell, we also had a few cold ones across the street at the EAGLE Then Peggy I met, as she took my place at Gordon's, and then Vicki thru a friend of ours, & others of the Family as well..So very sorry for your BIG loss, BUT you had him for many years and WHAT memories. RIP my Friend
May my support warm your heart
- Judy (Cale) Gervais, on
April 24, 2025
Sending our deepest sympathies and our love. We are keeping the family in our prayers.
May my support warm your heart
- Auntie Margaret and your cuz., on
April 24, 2025
Sorry for your loss. My deepest condolences to all of you.
- Darren Phillips, on
April 24, 2025
I was so very sad to hear of the passing of Bill yesterday. Our families were good friends, over the many years, at Sesekinika. My earliest memories were of Bill paddling his red canoe and waving as he passed our cottage. When I visited home back in 2023, my cousins and I were fortunate to have him join us for supper one evening. He was, as always. SO very entertaining. . My condolences to all of the family. RIP Mr. Righton.
- Linda (MacDonald) Dickson Seattle WA, on
April 24, 2025
Sincere condolences to you and your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Patrick & Kyra Daigle
May my support warm your heart
- Kyra Daigle, on
April 24, 2025
Our condolences , many memories of Bill
- Andy& Pat ( Pronto store 1970-1979), on
April 24, 2025
So sorry to hear of Bill passing. What a character he was. Always a great conversation and such a quick mind. He was kind and funny and a joy to be around. He will be missed by so many who knew and loved him. Condolences on your loss.
- Mike Bowman, on
April 24, 2025
Sincere condolences to the family.
- Gayle Havrot, on
April 24, 2025
We were saddened to find out of Bill's passing, was a true gentleman. He will be missed by many , but will now have a seat at the table with all his buddy's from our Legion. Stay strong for each other .Rob and Nancy
- ROB TAYLOR, on
April 25, 2025
So sorry to hear of Bill's or( as we knew him good old dad) passing . We had many visits and drinks with him he will,l sure be missed r.i.p my friend. Always asked how he was doing and told that he and the love of his life Casey were doing OK, big shock for Len and myself
- Len and Michelle Callahan , on
April 25, 2025
So sorry to hear of your loss. It was always a pleasure seeing Bill, “Mr.Righton” . Condolences to the family and friends. ️
- Sally (Wright) and Don Parcher, on
April 25, 2025
Your Dad was such an outgoing and dynamic person, well loved by everyone. I met your dad a few times and he was unforgettable, and always so grateful. He called me nurse Debbie. He will be sorely missed by all and the entire community of Kirkland Lake.
My deepest condolences from myself and the girls.
With love
As always
Debbie, Christine and Tina
Raftopoulos
May my support warm your heart
- Raftopoulos, on
April 25, 2025
Our sincere condolences on the loss of Bill. He truly was an extraordinary man and I know he will be terribly missed. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
May my support warm your heart
- Donna and Rick Morris, on
April 25, 2025
Sending our deepest sympathies in your loss of Dad, husband,Grandfather and friend to many, his Smiling face will be shining on all from above, once again thinking of you all of you all! Hugs Bev and Wes 4ipley
- Wes and Bev Ripley , on
April 25, 2025
We were saddened to find out of Bill's passing. On more than one occasion we had the pleasure of Bills company and enjoying a "shot". He would always extend his hand to greet you and his grip was like that of a steel vise. He definitely was a fixture around Ses, but also of Kirkland Lake. Our deepest sympathy to the families. Rest in Peace "Wilbur".
The Barty's
- Bill & Jo-Ann Barty, on
April 25, 2025
Our sincere condolences to the Righton family . R.i.p Bill .
- Helen and Bernadine Thorpe, on
April 25, 2025
God bless you all in your time of sadness wishing you all the best
May my support warm your heart
- mike mcmillan, on
April 25, 2025
I am so sorry to hear about your husband. I didn't know him but I remember all the fun times I had with you and all the other Guiders and just wanted you to know I have missed seeing you over these years since Guiding and I am thinking of you. My heartfelt condolences to you and your family.
Linda Glassford
- Linda Glassford, on
April 25, 2025
Hi I am sad to hear about your Loss of Dad . I remember some of all the good times we had in Sesekinika , thank you for all the fond memories . My heart goes out to all of you . Thinking of you and wishing you strength, and Peace during this time May your memories of DAD bring you comfort….
And I will add ….
those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us everyday, unseen, but always near still loved, still missed and very dear .
With love xoxo
Wendy Niemi
May my support warm your heart
- Wendy Niemi, on
April 26, 2025
Patrick , sending my sincerest condolences on the passing of your dad, may he rest in peace.
- Christina Bivol, on
April 26, 2025
My deepest condolences go out to you at this sorrowful time. Please know that you are in my thoughts.
- Laura Gagnon , on
April 26, 2025
So sorry to hear of the loss of Bill.
He was quite the character and a great story teller, he will be missed.
May he R I P
Pat & Lorraine Kiely
- Patrick Kiely, on
April 26, 2025
I am so sorry to hear of Bill's passing. Your Uncle Pat and I so enjoyed our visits with Bill and Eileen. Listening to Bill and Pat banter back and forth as they shared booster shots still brings a smile to my face.
Reading about all of Bill's life experiences was a fine tribute to a talented man. Hugs to all the family at this difficult time.
May my support warm your heart
- Stella Casey, on
April 26, 2025
So sad to learn of Bill’s passing. He was one of a kind! He had such a quick wit, so many hilarious stories and so proud of his family. He will certainly be missed by all that knew him. My sincere condolences to you all.
Jane
- Jane MacDonald, on
April 26, 2025
My deepest condolences to all.
Bill was such a genuine, funny, humble, and great person in all respects. He was second to none. He was the best refrigeration man when it came to fixing. He used to come to our bakery all the time as well to visit with my Dad and Grandfather along with his best friend George. They would go to our wine cellar and chat .
Love you Bill ️ and may you rest in peace now. Ps don’t crack too many jokes up there in the quiet land .
May my support warm your heart
- Micheal Stevanovich , on
April 26, 2025
Worked with Bill at Epcot McLean ltd He always brightened up our day in the office.
He was a good man and will be missed greatly
God Bless
- Michael Doyon, on
April 27, 2025
Our sincere sadness and condolences. Memories will go on meeting such a character who always was a joy to meet whenever the paths crossed . Our prayers go out to you.️
Ron and Tina
- Tina Rozich, on
April 27, 2025
I have fond memories of going to the Evoy Mclean shop with my buddy and seeing Bill. Always had a laugh and learned something new. Not to mention his incredible feats of strength! Rest in peace. My condolences
- Garry Garvin , on
April 27, 2025
Casey and Family...
Bill had worked with my Dad.
Whenever I saw Bill he never failed to ask me how they were doing...
and always had a story from the past to tell me...
I always loved to hear what he had to say...
He was a special Guy....
He will be missed...
I'm thinking of you Casey and your family...
It's never an easy time
May my support warm your heart
- Karen Hansen Larocque , on
April 27, 2025
We are so sorry about your loss. I still remember Bill’s humour and hospitality from last time’s visit to Kirkland Lake. Please accept our deepest condolences and we want to let you know we are thinking of you during this difficult time.
May my support warm your heart
- Dan Wang, on
April 28, 2025
My thoughts are with you at this sad time.
- Cathy Bagyan, on
April 28, 2025
From the friends of the Kirkland Lake Girl Guides we send our sincere sympathy to Casey and the Righton family of a husband and father who spent many years helping the guiders and Brownie leaders keep our guiding camp at Butler Lake up and running. May you rest in peace Bill. Shirley Downey (Snowy Owl).
- Shirley Downey, on
April 28, 2025
I already miss my morning "how the hell are ya kid?" And what's that young fella(Matt) up to? Cheers Bill may you rest in peace. Our condolences to the whole family.
- Delee & Matt Danchuk , on
April 28, 2025
Mrs.Righton, Peggy & Family;
Saddened to read of Mr. Righton's passing. What a sweet & funny man he was! Always felt so welcome in their family home in Sesekinika. Such a heartfelt tribute. I will cherish my memories of time spent with Peggy & her wonderful family. Sending healing hugs.
- Lorraine Zapotochny, on
April 28, 2025
Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time. What a beautiful tribute to him, very heart warming read ️
- Colleen McGill, on
April 28, 2025
So sorry to learn of Bill's passing. He was a friend to everyone he met.
I knew Bill for a number of years, and even had him do a winter stint for me when I worked for M.T.O. Great guy .
Condolences to Casey and all the family.
- Harold & Karen Birimcombe, on
April 28, 2025
Our sincere condolences.
- Brenda Todd , on
April 29, 2025
My deepest condolences to Casey and the Righton family.
I’m sincerely going to miss the stories and laughs I had with Bill and his entertaining way with words.
He could really make you feel good about yourself and often expressed how proud he was of his family.
Truly one of a kind!
I’m thankful I had the opportunity to get to know him, will miss him dearly.
- Kelly Smith, on
April 30, 2025
So sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. MAy he live on in the hearts of Family and Friends.
- Linda Wilson, on
May 1, 2025
My deepest sympathy on the loss of your Dad.
- Bev Spack, on
May 1, 2025
I'm so sorry to hear of Bill's passing. I moved in next door in 2018 and he welcomed me with open arms. I know he always kept an eye out the front windows watching the kids or dogs, even though he never said it. I didn't know him very long, but he was a great guy. My sincere condolences.
- Tiffany, on
May 1, 2025
What a beautiful obituary. Sad to hear of his passing. Glad he lived so long. He was an absolute legend and lived his best life.
- Nicholas Cashmore, on
May 4, 2025
My deepest sympathies go out to you all. We have many memories of Bill repairing refrigerators at both the Goldland Billiards and the Bellevue Tavern where he performed many a miracle on some the oldest equipment in town. He definitely had a gift in MacGyvering something out of nothing and making a compressor purr like a kitten again. Peter, you have that same gift and both of you have saved me countless times. A small business runs on nickels and dimes so it meant a lot that you had our backs.
Thank you for all the years of dedication and one-liners Bill. Someone will write a book on you one day.
Sincerely,
Erin, Lorraine Robazza and Family
- Erin Robazza, on
May 20, 2025
