Obituary of William Henry Claridge

CLARIDGE: William "Bill" Henry Claridge, of Brandon, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 7, 2012 after a brief and courageous battle with cancer. Bill was born in Binscarth, MB on September 14, 1931 to Reginald and Marion Claridge. The early days were spent in the quiet small town attending school and getting into mischief with his brother Lenny.Bill began his lifelong career with C.P. Rail in 1956. During the early part of his career he was stationed in Binscarth, Foxwarren and Newdale. During his employment in Binscarth, Bill met Sheila Mitchell who was working as a schoolteacher. They were married in 1961 and moved to Newdale to begin their life together. Bill was posted in Newdale as Station Manager for C.P Rail. Bill and Sheila began their family in Newdale and the family lived above the train station. Many fond memories are held by the kids of their adventures with Dad at the train station. In 1970, Bill, Sheila and three kids in tow moved to Brandon. Bill continued his employment with C.P. Rail. Bill was never content to sit idle and in his spare time he would sell World Book Encyclopedias, square dance with Sheila, spend time camping with friends and family and tinker with cars. Bill retired from the railway in 1991 after a heart attack which required a quadruple by-pass surgery, however, that didn't slow him down a bit. Bill remained active in his retirement and spent time with his family and close friends. Bill enjoyed spending time with his children and friends and was fond of taking day trips to Casinos in Canada and the USA. In the later years, Bill enjoyed spending time with his four grandchildren. The kids always brought out the best of Grandpa. They enjoyed spending time with him and will miss him deeply. Bill is survived by his daughter Diane Laird (Al Dyck), sons Duane Claridge (Sherice), Terry Claridge (Danah) and grandchildren Taylor, Abbey, Hayden and Kolbie Claridge, and many relatives and friends. Bill was predeceased by his father and mother Reginald and Marion Claridge, wife Sheila Claridge, brother Lenny Claridge and grandson, Tanner Claridge. Bill will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by all. An intimate graveside service was held at Brookdale Cemetery, Brookdale, MB on October 12, 2012. Donations in Bill's memory may be made to a charity of your choice.