Sunday, March 19, 2023
Bill was Chairman and CEO when I joined GE Canada in 1989, initially on a senior-level executive exchange program from the federal government. He, with then Vice Chairman Bob Gillespie, was instrumental in supporting my transition from government to business, took time to brief me on key facts and people that I should know, and was very encouraging when I suggested the need for a government relations function in the company. It was a time of transformational change as GE Canada became direct-connected to the U.S. parent. I will always remember Bill as a highly respected business leader, a brilliant strategist, a passionate farmer, and a mentor and friend. I was glad that I was able to seek his advice and to maintain our relationship after we both retired. My sincere condolences go out to Monique and the family. They will take comfort, I know, in the knowledge that Bill led a full, happy, and successful life.
