Bill Thiessen
We are saddened to share that long time Rotarian and friend, Bill Thiessen, passed away last week.
His daughter Joanne shared that the funeral service will be on Thursday, November 14 at 11 am at South Abbotsford Church 32424 Huntingdon Rd, Abbotsford. All are welcome and encouraged to attend.
The funeral will be live-streamed as well, for those who cannot make it in person. Joanne expects the link will be on the Dignity Memorial website in the obituary section by Tuesday. In addition to the funeral, there will be a viewing there on Wednesday evening.
Bill’s roots were in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan where he spent his youth on his dad’s highly diversified farm. Although farming as a career was a ready option he chose to pursue higher education, primarily at the University of Saskatchewan with degrees in Arts and Education. This led to teaching at the secondary school level, and to six years of voluntary service in Nigeria, first at a teacher’s college and then administration as Country Director of Mennonite Central Committee.
Upon his return from Nigeria he obtained a Masters degree in Anthropology and taught first year Anthropology at the University of Saskatchewan. He then served as CEO of MCC in Alberta for 14 years, and then Director of Program and Personnel with MCC B.C.
Following “retirement” in 1999, he and his wife volunteered at home, in the USA and abroad, including Botswana, Egypt and Jamaica twice, and traveled to various countries of personal interest. His hobbies included writing, photography and outdoor activity. Sports and recreation, always an interest throughout his life, included cycling, golfing and (somewhat) strenuous hiking.
Upon his return from Nigeria he obtained a Masters degree in Anthropology and taught first year Anthropology at the University of Saskatchewan. He then served as CEO of MCC in Alberta for 14 years, and then Director of Program and Personnel with MCC B.C.
Following “retirement” in 1999, he and his wife volunteered at home, in the USA and abroad, including Botswana, Egypt and Jamaica twice, and traveled to various countries of personal interest. His hobbies included writing, photography and outdoor activity. Sports and recreation, always an interest throughout his life, included cycling, golfing and (somewhat) strenuous hiking.
Bill will be deeply missed in the club.