BLACKBURN, William `Bill` Thomas
In loving memory of Bill Blackburn who, after a courageous battle with cancer, lost his fight on May 23rd, 2014 at the age of 79 at the Englehart and District Hospital. Bill was born in Englehart on January 3rd, 1935. He started working at the ONR in December 1951 and was a loyal and committed employee for 39 years. His true passion however, was his farm (Clayridge Farms) in Chamberlain Township. He began with a few Herfords and, in the 1980s, was one of the first to introduce Maine-Anjou cattle to Northern Ontario. As his farm continued to grow, his Percheron horses were welcomed companions. His son Trevor Blackburn is continuing Bill’s legacy at Clayridge Farms. Predeceased by his parents Kathleen and Walter Blackburn. He is survived by his loving wife of almost 58 years, Shirley Blackburn, daughter Darcey Link (Edward), son Trevor Blackburn (Laura), daughter Holly Henninger (Tom), brother Bryce Blackburn “Bud†(Cathy), sister Ethel Purbrick (Bob), sister Kathleen Smith (Ken), loving grandfather to Stacey Borgford, Brandon Link (Mel), Kayla and Tayler Blackburn, Julia and Jakob Henninger, and loving great grandfather to Ty, Cody, Jessie, Cole, Tanner and Brett Borgford, and Rylan, Harper and Sadie Link. Also by his cousins, nieces & nephews. The family of Bill Blackburn will receive friends at Chamberlain Township Hall, Tuesday May 27, from 1 to 4 pm, for a Celebration of Bill’s Life. In memory, contributions to the Wheelchair Bus Fund or a local charity of your choice will be greatly appreciated. Condolences, and contributions may be left at www.mcdonaldfuneralhome.ca
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