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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
TOWILL, Grant Alexander - It is with the saddest of hearts, we announce the passing of our father, Grant (Gary) Alexander Towill on March 12, 2022. He was predeceased by his wife, Shirley (Myles) Towill; parents, John and Anne Towill; sister, Pat Ridgway (Morley); brothers, Barrie, Kenneth, and Edwin Towill. He is survived by son, Gary (Shawna); and daughters, Maureen (Curtis) and Michelle. He was an adored Grampy to Joshua, Jamie (Tesha), Taylor (Rebecca), Lauren (Nick), Mikey (Hayley), Andrew (Kennedy) and Emma and “Poppies”; to great-grandchildren, Noah, Sawyer and Annabelle. Also surviving are sister-in-laws, Anna Marie Towill and Elaine Towill. Born on November 19, 1939, Dad came from humble roots growing up and working on the family farm in Wapella, Sask. After high school, he joined the Royal Canadian Navy as an Ordinary Seaman Stoker but quickly rose in rank through his commitment and service in marine systems engineering. Dad served on 13 ships including two postings on the HMCS PRESERVER, where in his earlier years he was a junior member of the engineering department and returning as the Engineering Officer in 1984. In 1986, he was awarded the Order of Military Merit recognizing distinctive merit, exceptional service, and dedication beyond the call of duty. In 1994 Dad retired as Commanding Officer of Fleet Maintenance Group Atlantic. After 35 years of service Dad hung up his uniform and moved into “civies” for another five years as Contract Technical Manager for the Department of National Defense. Commander Towill was respected by all who worked with him and was the epitome of honor, valor, and discipline. Dad left an indelible mark on the Royal Canadian Navy and is spoken of in legendary stories around the dockyards to this day. Some of them, he might even own up to. Not long after enlisting, he met the love of his life, Shirley (Myles) whom he married in 1960. A dedicated husband and father, Dad and Mom built a beautiful life together. They enjoyed 61 years of marriage that blossomed into three children, seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren. They exemplified true love and devotion and were role models of honesty, responsibility, kindness, and respect for their family. Dad loved the sea and the sun – the hotter, the better for him – he couldn’t wait for their Florida getaways each winter they were able to go. They also loved their time spent at the cottage with family and especially their grandchildren, who cherish their memories with Nanny and Grampy, swimming in and sailing on Molega Lake in the “old pontoon”. Never missing a birthday, graduation or special event, Dad was so very proud of his family and took a genuine interest in everyone’s lives. Quick witted and diligent, Dad had a vast array of interests, from Shakespeare (whom he quoted often), wildlife, hockey, boating, woodworking, mechanics, gardening, reading and crossword puzzles. He was self-taught in many things and was just stubborn enough to keep working on something until he had figured it out on his own. Incredibly clever and just as tenacious, there was nothing he couldn’t do once he set his mind to it. Dad was fond of regaling the story of his lead role in his high school operetta “The Wishing Well”, memorizing his lines and singing five songs. Mind you, we never heard him sing any of them. Our father was a true gentleman. Courtesy, respect, and kindness were always extended and were foundational in his relationship with his beloved and equal partner in life, Shirley. Genuinely appreciative, there was never a meal he did not thank her for and tell her it was delicious, even if it beans and wieners. In later years, with mom’s decline in health, Dad became her devoted caregiver. Under Mom’s watchful eye, he became “chief cook and bottle washer” as he called himself. He became an excellent cook but always had Mom taste it, to make sure it was just right. He cared for her selflessly and even as his own health failed, his concern was for our mother. Surprising to us all, she passed before him, never having to endure a day without her love but leaving him heartbroken without her until his own passing, less than two months later. We will miss our Dad terribly but take comfort in knowing he is reunited with our mom and their journey together continues. Fastidious by nature and never a man to leave things undone, Dad spent his last weeks with family organizing, planning, and directing to ensure there were no loose ends. He was content in knowing everyone and everything was being taken care of while we were given the gift of time to care for him, as he had cared for mom. He enjoyed many hours of the Olympic games, hockey and curling and spent special time with family before he left us. We will cherish those memories forever. Many thanks to the outstanding support from the team at Northwood Home Care, Palliative Services and the Victorian Order of Nurses who helped us ensure Dad’s comfort at home. Your departure has left us with a huge space in our hearts, but we know you will always be watching over us, giving us a proud grin and a thumbs up. We love you forever and miss you for always. As per Dad’s wishes, there will be a private family burial at a later date. “Fair Winds and Following Seas”.
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