Passed away peacefully with his family by his side, at South Huron Hospital, Exeter on Monday, June 2, 2025, at the age of 80. Beloved husband of Judith (Chalmers) Darling for 56 years. Cherished father of Holly, Kevin, and Kyle (Gabby). Proud and adored Papa of Madeline and Lila. Bill was an only child, but he was surrounded by a wide circle of family and friends who will remember him fondly. He will be deeply missed by his in-laws, nieces, nephews, extended family, and all who knew him. He was predeceased by his grandson, Carson Mortimer, and by his parents, Jack and Eleanor (Hotson) Darling.
A lifelong resident of Lucan, Bill lived a life rooted in hard work, hockey, music and his family. He was known for his endless stories, often repeated, his golf obsession and his ability to make his family know they were the most important people in the world to him.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the incredible and thoughtful staff at South Huron Hospital for their dedicated and compassionate care.
The Darling family invites you to honour the passing of Bill Darling with a Celebration of Life on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. Bill loved nothing more than to golf and help out on the course and after retiring, practically moved into The Fox, Golf North’s golf course in-between Lucan and St Mary’s.
His family would love to see you at his home away from home, The Fox, 15058 Elginfield Road, RR # 3, Granton on the 22nd of July from 2-4:30 pm for conversation and celebration of his life and legacy.
His family, Judy, Holly, Kevin, Kyle, Gabby, Madeline and Lila, and his two favourite dogs, Winston and Kora (not in attendance) look forward to hearing your stories of Bill as it wouldn’t be a gathering honouring him without the repetition of endless stories keeping his name alive. Embellishments to those stories were and are, always welcome! This event will be open to the public and will take place in the lounge area of The Fox golf club.
Cremation has taken place.
In memory of Bill, donations to St John Ambulance Therapy Dog Program – Midwestern Ontario Region would be appreciated by the family.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Irene MacDonald (Wise)
Dear Judith, I am only just hearing of Bill’s passing. My sincere condolences and sympathy for you and your family. Bill always made me laugh, always so entertaining he was.I feel so sad I didn’t know of his passing. Take care Judy, and God Bless .
Sincerely,
Irene MacDonald
David Revington
Judy, Holly, Kevin, Kyle and Families:
I was very saddened to hear of Bill’s passing. He was truly one of the Lucan good guys. We sure enjoyed a lot of good times playing on his Hagen’s tournament travel team. He will be missed. Rev.
Pat & Cora Ryan
Judy and family our sincere condolences at this time, to a life well lived.
Pat and Cora
Lawrie Carter
Judy and family ,
Sincere condolences I always looked forward to chatting with Bill at the Fox.
Fergie & Lucie
Dear Judy and Family,
It saddens so many of us who knew Bill during our decades in the pet industry.
He was a kind and knowledgeable professional, and often a source of laughter and good advice. He was always good to be with. We worked “together” yet in different parts of the country.
Our sincere sympathies
Ron and Jane Orsatti
Sorry Judy to just found out of Billy’s passing. I met him just after he got the job at the RC Hagen company and wanted to be just like him. We ended up working together for my 27 years at Hagen. He was an amazing sales rep always helping to enrich his customers with knowledge and products that were the right fit. Honest and reliable and the most liked sales rep that I had the honour to know. I will truly miss him and never forget our time together.
Nancy Linklater
Bill was always our favourite sales rep. We always had a good laugh when he stopped. He was dedicated, hardworking and honest with the greatest sense of humour. I used to run into him occasionally at Tim Hortons in Lucan and we always had a good vist, Most sincere condolences from our family to all of Bills family. May he rest in peace – with some good laughs along the way.
John Ayres
Truly a sad Day. I meet Bill as a young 23 year old sales rep in the pet industry working the southwestern Ontario Territory and after initially getting under his skin he schooled me on how we needed to be collogues not competitors a lesson that has served me well for my following 39 career.
Love the times we broke bread together at the Best Western in Windsor.
You could not have meet a greater Guy and I still talk about him often to industry friends.
Whenever Bill was present so was laughter and the stories some are legendary.
My condolences to the family may the many memories you share help you through this time.
I will forever have great memories of Bill.
John Ayres – Long time pet industry friend.
Dieter Hagen
Dear Judith and family,
I just found out that William “Bill” had passed away. My heartfelt condolences to you and your family for the loss of your beloved husband, father of Holly, Kevin and Kyle (Gabby) and grandfather of Madeline and Lila.
Bill was for a very long time a valuable member of our Hagen sales team. I will always remember his honesty, dedication and loyalty he had towards the customer and our company. He earned the respect from all of us. I always enjoyed my meetings with Bill and appreciated his positive attitude. His glass was always half full! Bill, rest in peace.
Betty &Bob Mainguy
Our deepest sympathy, Bob & I worked with Bill for decades, we would meet at Shows, Meetings, & Events, such good memories of good times,
Kevin MacKenzie
Bill was my mentor in sales. I had the privilege of working with him for many years. I traveled with him often and my side would hurt from laughing. Although we lost touch over the years we’d occasionally text on Christmas or on our birthday (we shared the same day). I will always remember him as the best salesman I have ever met and one of the funniest.
One story I’ll share is we were traveling and stopped at Arby’s for lunch. When ordered the clerk as Bill if he wanted a turnover. He threw himself on the counter and preceeded to “turnover”. Thanks for the memories Bill.
Mike & Pat Callcott
Judy, we are so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. He was a wonderful neighbor and friend, always kind and warm-hearted. We are sending our deepest condolences to you and the family at this time.
Bill and Marilyn Hack
Dear Judy and family, we are so sorry to hear of Bill,s passing. We have fond memories of the times he was giving of himself to coach hockey . He will be remembered for all his kindness to all the young men he coached and the good times we had with him. May all the good memories help you through this tough time.
Heather vanderboog
I was deeply saddened to hear of Bill’s passing
He was such a genuinely kind man
I worked with Bill at The Fox Golf club
Linda and I worked a lot of tournaments with Bill where his expertise in BBQing steak. Was greatly welcomed
Bill will be truly missed
Janice
Hi Judy I am sorry to hear of your husband’s passing I am sending my deepest sympathy to you and your family God Bless 🙏
Dale & Linda Froats
Judy, Holly, Kyle, Kevin and the girls,
We are going to miss our stroller that passes by and always has time for a visit. He was such a very kind, proud and family devoted neighbour and friend. Sympathies and hugs to each of you.
John Barry
Dear Judy, Kevin, Kyle, Holly, and family,
So sad to hear this news from Mac last night. Like so many others, we have so many wonderful memories of Bill from back in the day. He was a truly terrific guy — kind, generous, and without a selfish bone in his body. He loved his kids deeply and would have done anything for Judy and the family. This is a great loss for all of you, and for the entire Lucan community. We will certainly miss Bill.
With heartfelt sympathy,
John, Mac, and Patrick Barry
Jim and Sue Drennan
Dear Judy and family, sorry to hear of Darls passing, grew up together, played on the Blazers and Huffnpuff. Bill was always fun to be around, never seen to have a bad day. He will surely be missed, may he rest in peace.
Gerry Kehl
I was saddened to learn of Bill’s passing. As several others have noted, I too had the pleasure of playing hockey with Bill during our younger years. We lived just around the corner from one another in Lucan until my family relocated in 1960. But it wasn’t just about hockey—we were all close friends who looked out for one another.
Coincidentally, the Saturday prior to Bill’s passing, I attended a function where I inquired with a current Lucan resident about Bill’s well-being and whereabouts. It was a reminder of how certain individuals leave a lasting impression on our lives, even as time and distance intervene.
Bill was one of those individuals for me, and I will always remember him fondly.
Gerry Kehl
Dave and Coleen Whyte
Coleen and I send our sincere condolences to Judy, Holly, Kevin and Kyle. I first met Bill when we were only two years old. Years later, he was my Best Man at our wedding and I at his. He will always remain my Best Man. ❤️
Russ Kennedy
Bill and I hung out together in the 60s. Good times a lot of fun. Great guy
Rick & Sandra Mosurinjohn
Fondly remember Bill friends from throughout the 60’s such a good guy
Gord and Brenda Moon
Judy and Family,
We are saddened to hear the news of Bill’s passing. He was always very friendly whenever meeting him in town. Fond memories of the days of playing hockey with Gord. You’re in our thoughts.
Dan Morrison
I always looked forward to seeing Billy at The Fox. Will miss his funny stories. Rest In Peace Bill.
Reg and Joan Crawford
Dear Judy and Family. We are deeply saddened to hear that Bill has passed away. As you mentioned to us lately Judy we knew he wasn’t well. Things do change very quickly. May you take comfort in each other at this difficult time. May you rest in peace Bill.
Mike & Lori Pullen
Our sincere sympathies, Holly and Family. May you forever cherish all the wonderful memories.
John and Pat Ward
Judy, our deepest condolences to you and your family . Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time. I know John will miss his frequent chats with Bill.
Kathy Petit (nee Hearn)
So sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. Judy I have fond memories of helping you and Bill out when Kevin and Kyle were born. I would come after school for a few hours and lend a hand! I loved every minute! Your kids were so cute and I enjoyed getting to know you and Bill better! Big hugs sent to you Holly Kevin and Kyle. RIP Bill ❤️
Elaine McNair and Dennis Rempel
Judy and Family …Sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. Our condolences to all of you ..your in our thoughts and prayers 💕
Jim and Helen Hearn
Dear Judy,
We were shocked and saddened to learn of Bill’s passing. Our deepest sympathy to all his loved ones. We always enjoyed having a chat at The Fox. Lucan has lost another “good one”.
Jim and Helen
Tom Hearn
I am sorry to hear this sad news. It was always fun to run into him around town and at the arena. You have my deepest condolences.
Gord young
Sorry to hear about Bills passing, we were a couple of wild & crazy guys. The Bounty Hunters were a great group who should have become famous..
Gord & Jean
Joyce Sovereign
Dear Judy and Family
My sincere sympathy to you and your family on Bill’s death.
Sharon MacDonald
Judy & family, our sincere condolences at this difficult time.
In this time of sadness, may the Lord lead all of you to a place of peace.
Our prayers are with you.
John ‘n Sharon MacDonald
Kathy & Mark Henry
Dear Judy, Holly, Kevin, Kyle & Family:
We send our sincere condolences and much love to you.
We will be keeping all of you in our prayers in the adjustment that you will pass through in the times ahead.
Bill has left us with his winning smile, his contagious humour and so very many awesome happy family memories. I remember Dad (aka Uncle Fred)and Bill in the kitchen in Milverton in constant laughter. What good times they had!
I know Bill is resting in wonderful peace and rising in glory, remembering him fondly.
With much love – Kathy & Mark Henry and The Egerdee Family
Pam and Paul Hodgins
This seems unbelievable, such a fantastic man and resident of Lucan. He had so many Golf, Hockey, and Baseball stories and loved sharing them. I had the privilege of playing many of these sports with him as did so many others from this town. Our Condolences to the Darling Family, this Man can’t Possibly ever be forgotten.
Beth O'Shea
Dear Judy, Holly, Kevin, Kyle, Gabby, Madeline and Lila
So sorry to learn of Bill’s passing. You have lost a great husband, father and grandfather. He will be missed.
Don and Diane williams
Judy and Family We are so sorry to hear of your loss. We send our deepest condolences to you and your entire family at this sad time in your life
Gary and Linda Hayter
Judy and Family Gary and I are so sorry to hear of Bills passing. Our thoughts are with you all at this difficult time.
Amanda Damen (nee Hotson)
I most remember Bill stopping by for a visit – always with fish stuff in the car. He always had everything, and helped me out with equipment for more than one science fair experiment while I was growing up. I wish you peace and joy in your memories and am thinking of you during this difficult time.
Linda Hackney
I had the great pleasure of working with Bill at the Fox Golf club for many years. He was always someone you could count on no matter what the task. Bill would help Heather and I on organizing the day of managing many golf tournaments. He will truly be missed by many. Our prayers and thoughts are with you during this difficult time. Linda & Dennis Hackney.
Craig McColl
My deepest sympathies and condolences to Judy and family.
Bill and I became great friends at the Fox Golf course. He always had many fun stories to share with me. A close friend that will be missed .
RIP Bill ! ❤️
Dave and Linda Smith
Judy and Family,
Saddened to hear of Bill’s passing. A friendly guy and great to chat with, often a laugh or a chuckle during the conversation. He will be missed by many.
Barb coughlin
My sincere condolences to you Judy, Holly, Kevin and Kyle. Don played hockey with Bill for many years, starting when they were very young
Barb Coughlin
Jenny Blake
Judy, Holly, Kevin, Kyle, and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all as you navigate this difficult time. Bill will be so missed. Don’t forget to take deep breaths.
Ann Revington
To the Darling family,
Bill was an integral part of Lucan hockey teams that Gary played on. Those were fun times for the players and the spectators. Peace be with you.
Ann Revington
Tom & Mary Ann McLaughlin
Judy and Family
So sad to hear of Bill’s passing. He was a great guy who enjoyed life in so many ways. Many great times playing hockey over the years with Bill. Remember all the wonderful memories. You are in our thoughts during this difficult time.
Bill and Sue Chalmers
To Judy, Holly, Kevin and Kyle,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during these difficult times. Bill will always be remembered for his outgoing personality in any situation. A man of many talents, who always had the time to give you his undivided attention. He will be truly missed.
Jan and Gary Barker
Judy and Family we are so sad about Bill’s passing ,in tears can’t believe another friend has
passed away. Lots of good memories with Bill re golf trips and his sense of humour and as
people have mentioned his story telling. Judy our thoughts are with You and Your Family
Know that he was always there for his Family.
MARYON Cobleigh
I am so sorry to hear about Bills passing, my husband Art Cobleigh use to play in the Bounty Hunters many years ago with Bill. He is going to be missed greatly.I hope they get together in heaven and play their guitars.
Barb
My condolences to you Judy and Holly and Kevin and Kyle. Don and I’ll played hockey together over the years, starting when they were quite young.
Barb Coughlin
George Dauncey
Judy and family,
Our condolences to you all as you mourn Bill’s passing. Our thoughts are with you all today and in the days ahead as you navigate life without Bill. May your many memories bring you comfort at this difficult time.
George Dauncey
Bev and Shawn Dayman and family
Saralynn and Brett and family
Sean riehl
To the family of uncle Bill from the Riehl family of mount forest, sorry to the family, many memories from lots of fun times over the years
Jackie Piccolotto(Blay)
Judy, Holly, Kevin and Kyle. Sorry to hear about Bill’s passing. My condolences to all of you.
Susan Cook
Judy and family,
I was so saddened to hear of Bill’s passing. I will miss his outgoing personality and great smile every time I saw him at the Fox. He certainly will be missed by all the members.
Connie Van Bussel
Condolences to the entire Darling family. I will be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
Cindy White
Judy and family
Bill always had a story when he came into the pharmacy or when I ran into him any where in town.
He was a very likeable guy. I know his stories and his humour will be missed. Thinking of you in the days ahead as you share your memories.
Cindy White
Beth Radcliffe
Judy and family
Please accept our sincere and heartfelt sympathy. We have many fond memories of Bill. Cherish your memories!
Russ and Beth
Maryann Quesnel
Judy and family,
My deepest condolences on Bill’s passing..
Maryann
Judy Talbot
So many memories of Bill and all our adventures together. Always had a smile and tons of jokes. Hugh and I enjoyed our camping days, travel experiences and many hockey games. Dear Judy, my condolences on losing the love of your life! Judy Talbot.
Norm Middaugh
So sorry to hear of Bill’s passing.
I played hockey with him for many years.
RIP my friend
Heather Mutter
Judy, our deepest condolences to you. Sending our love,
Heather and Peter Mutter
Cathy Hanington
Judy, Holly, Kevin and Kyle
So sorry to hear of the passing of Bill.
Our condolences at this time of loss. Keep the memories close.
From your neighbours Ruthann Curtis
Cathy (Curtis) and Chris Hanington
Mary Flannigan (Chalmers)
I am so very sorry to learn of Bill’s passing. He was such a spirited man, who loved life and his family. His smile was infectious, and his pure enjoyment of others was so open and honest. I know he leaves a huge void in your lives and hope and pray time will find a way to ease the pain for all of you.
Judy Bond
Judy & family, please accept my deepest condolences for your loss..
Judy Bond
Wayne and Pam Hall
Judy, Holly, Kevin & Kyle and families, I am saddened to hear of Bill’s passing. I mainly remember his involvement with many hockey teams and tournaments in Lucan. Pam & I send our condolences to the family. Cherish the many memories you shared together. Rest in Peace Bill.
Dennis Kelterborn
Judy and Family..My condolences for your loss.
Dave & Joan Goddard
Judy, Holly, Kevin and Kyle
So sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad and difficult time.
Joanne & Gord Hardy
Judy, Holly, Kevin & Kyle and families
Sincere sympathy for your loss. Bill was always so friendly and will be missed. May he rest in peace.
John Hayton
My sincerest condolences to Judith, Holly,Kevin and Kyle. I have been truly blessed to have had Bill for a friend. I will miss knowing that a photo of me is posted in the Lucan jail. Rest in peace dear friend.
Cyrille Hartman
Judy, Holly,Kyle,Kevin
Sending our sincere condolences in the loss of a wonderful husband,father and grandfather.
Bill was a great neighbor and friend.
He will be greatly missed.
Thinking of you all at this difficult time.
Hugs.
Cyrille and Anne
Maureen Craig
Dear Judy, sorry to hear about Bill, my thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.
Maureen Craig
Pat Brennan
So sorry for the loss of such a fantastic man. A true gentleman. He will be missed by all. Condolences to all the family. Love Pat + Amy + Niamh and Enya Saint Marys.
Joan Greenlee
Sorry to hear of Bills passing. Condolences to you Judy, Holly, Kyle and Kevin – good memories of him will always be remembered- Joan Greenlee and family.
Don Lankin
Judy and family
So sorry to hear of Bill’s passing my sincere condolences he was a great guy.
Carmen JONES
Dear Judy and family,
Condolences on your loss from your old neighbors. So sorry for your loss.
David and Carmen Jones
Leroy and Nancy Maguire
We are sorry for your loss of Bill. Our condolences at this difficult time.
Leroy and Nancy Maguire
Brian Haskett
Brian and Sharon Haskett
Dear Judy and family.
Please accept our deepest condolences.
Jane Forster
Judy and family,our sincere sympathy to all of you.Jane and John Forster.
Wilma Van Bussel
Judy, Holly, Kevin and Kyle,
I am so very sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. I have fond memories of him coming into the salon for a little chat whenever I was there, and especially for him giving me a ride two months ago. We talked about anything, but he spoke especially about Holly and “the boys”. He will be missed by many. I am thinking of you and wish you strength. The memories will help.
Wilma Van Bussel.
James Dundass
The Montreal Dundas family has only thoughts of Uncle Bill today. My funniest Uncle growing up and the reason I have played “the Gem of Virginia” golf course on two separate occasions. I wish I could have received more golf wisdom from him. He will be missed for sure. Our love to all the family and our condolences for the large hole that Uncle Bill will leave in our hearts.
Sue Heffernan
Judy & Family, so sorry for your loss my deepest sympathy
Doug and Karen Kelterborn
Judy and family,
Sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. We wish to extend our sincere condolences to all of you. Take comfort in the memories that you will carry with you in the days and years ahead.
Doug and Karen Kelterborn
Jackie Arnold
Judy and family
I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of Bill. He was a great man. Sending my condolences during this difficult time. Cherish his memories. RIP Bill❤️If you need anything you know where to find me.
Lee and Lyle Mortimer
Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to Judy ,Holly, Kyle (Gabby),Kevin, Madeline, and Lila in the loss of an amazing husband, father, and papa. His outgoing personality and his love to tell stories made him a friend to many. We always enjoyed our visits to the Darlings. Our happiest memories of Bill will live in our hearts forever.
Mike Wraith
Judy and family.
So sorry to hear of Bill’s passing.
He was a dear friend and team mate. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Mike & Colleen Wraith
Larry Lewis
Judy and family
So sorry to here of Bill’s passing.
We played many hockey games together. An all star goalie he was.
Remember all the good times. He was a great guy!
Larry and Lynda Lewis
Rick and Wilma Freeman
Oh no. We are so saddened to hear of Bill’s passing. I have fond memories of Bill running the Hagen Hackers tournament hockey team and his presence around Lucan. Bill was such a great guy. Peace be with you all