W.J. (Bill) Ridgeway

Obituary

Passed on

It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts we announce the unexpected passing of W. J. (Bill) Ridgeway, aged 82, of Grosse Isle, MB, on the evening of June 18, 2025. Bill was born on July 7, 1942, growing up and spending his entire life in the community he loved. 

Bill was a dedicated educator, farmer, businessman and respected member of the community, after graduating he took his Industrial Arts teacher training at the Manitoba Institute of Technology. He furthered his education at Bradley University in Illinois, and the University of Northern Colorado, focusing on Industrial Technical Education and Psychology. Bill continued to expand his knowledge with numerous courses in agriculture and agribusiness, and he enhanced his professional skills through training with the Insurance Brokers Association of Manitoba.

Throughout his career, Bill made significant contributions to the workplaces and communities he served. He was President of the Manitoba Government Employees Association and the founding president of the National Union of Provincial Government Employees, an instructor at Red River Community College, served as an advisor to Members of Parliament, was a substitute teacher with the Interlake School Division, and proudly carried on the family farming tradition while operating Ridgeway Insurance Agency. 

Bill was predeceased by his infant son Richard, as well as his parents, Frances and John, and his in-laws, Mary and George Laing as well as many cherished relatives and lifelong friends. He is survived by his beloved wife, of 59 years, Norma, and their children: Tracy (Dick) Proctor, Kelly (Chantel), Beth (Daniel) Mason, and Robert. Bill was a proud grandfather to Baily (Ashley), Kayla, Christopher, and Maria.

An active member of his community, Bill was involved in numerous clubs and organizations, including the Grosse Isle Recreation Club, Vintage Locomotive Society, Manitoba Pool Elevators, AG in the Classroom, St. Michael’s Anglican Church, the Royal Canadian Legion, Rosser Agribusiness, Rockwood Agricultural Society, Canadian Seed Growers Association, Warren and District Chamber of Commerce, Manitoba Canola Growers Association, Manitoba Straw Producers Co-op, Royal Winnipeg Rifles Reserve and Cadet Corps, Khartum Shriners, Regional Health Authority Committees, Stonewall and District Lions Club and Lions Manor. His political experience was extensive, serving as a long-standing member and volunteer of the Liberal Party. No matter your political leaning Bill was always ready for a spirited discussion. 

Bill enjoyed sports, cheering on the Jets, Bombers, and going to Goldeyes games, as well as supporting his children and grandchildren in their endeavours. Family was at the heart of Bill’s life, and he took immense pride in their accomplishments.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, July 5, at 1:00 PM at the Grosse Isle Recreation Club in Grosse Isle MB.  

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