In Loving Memory of

John Winstanley Bilsland

of Edmonton

On April 19, 2017 John died peacefully, after having suffered a series of strokes. He was 94 years old. He will be lovingly remembered by his large family as a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and uncle.

John was predeceased by his beloved wife Rhona in 2003. He is survived by his five children: John (Hannah), Margaret Batz (Harold), Nora Kushneryk (Wayne), Joan (Jim Grandan) and Mary Jane; ten grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law Nancy Lord. He was predeceased by his sister Kathleen (Cecil Stubbs) and brothers Allan (Rhoda) and Bill (Claire).

John was born and raised in Vancouver. He served in the Royal Canadian Air Force in World War II. He obtained his BA and MA from the University of British Columbia and his PhD from the University of Toronto. Dad was a born teacher, having taught at the University of Alberta, Faculty of Arts, Department of English from 1955 to 1985, retiring as Professor Emeritus. Following retirement he volunteered for over 20 years with Disabled Students Services and led the Strathcona Seniors Writing Group.

Dad received exceptional care from Dawn Harsch, Dr. Detorakis, Dr. Schloss and the staff at Exquisicare and Unit 3A of the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital. To all of them, the family wish to express their deep gratitude for many kindnesses.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 29, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Mill Woods Presbyterian Church, 6607-31 Ave NW, the Reverend Ms. Jean Bryden officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family request that if friends wish to do so, they make memorial donations to the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation, 10230-111 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB, T5G 0B7.