Bill Bond, a longtime Prince George resident and the unendingly supportive spouse of his wife of 41 years, MLA Shirley Bond, died at St. Paul's Hospital in Vancouver.
According to Bill's Facebook page, he was born Jan. 18, 1950, attended Prince George Secondary School, the College of New Caledonia and worked for the City of Prince George.
Shirley announced Bill's death on her Facebook page Monday evening with this statement:
"The time has come for me to share some news that has broken my heart.
Some of you know that my husband Bill has been facing a series of health challenges during the last months. His heart, kidneys, crushed vertebrae, the list goes on. The final challenge was a massive left brain stroke that Billy just couldn't manage despite his courageous efforts. My beloved husband of more than 41 years passed away at St. Paul's Hospital in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit. I struggle to imagine a world without Billy in it. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle and friend. He was my life partner and best friend. More later, but for now, rest well Billy, we love you to the moon and back!"
Bill and Shirley were known in the region as Team Bond as they attended countless community events together to show their support for the community in which they lived and raised their family, including adult twins and beloved grandchildren.
In response to Shirley's announcement, more than 1,000 people on Facebook have responded by offering their condolences.
Here are some of the statements made:
Bob Zimmer MP:
Just heard a few hours ago Shirley Bond and so saddened by the news. Bill Bond meant alot to us as was just always there. Will always remember Bill as a kind man who would regularly ask about my family and talk about life. In our busy and intense jobs Bill was such a refreshing breath of normal. We will sure miss him. Whatever you need we are here for you. Take care Shirley.
Todd Corrigall, CEO Prince George Chamber of Commerce
I am so sorry to hear this, Shirley. Bill was a great man and you two were the perfect match for one another. While I know you have a long road ahead, know that you are loved, appreciated and have an entire community ready to help out. All of our love to you, your children, grandchildren and extended family. Melanie, Todd and Violet.
Colleen Van Mook, Downtown Prince George executive director
Oh Shirley Bond my heart goes out to you and your wonderful family! Billy was the best! I am honoured to have had the pleasure of knowing you both for over 30 years! You have been an inspiration in so many ways. We will miss Bill so much. Please know we are here for you like you have been here for so many of us!
Pat Bell, former MLA, local business owner:
Billy was, and always will be a great friend. Brenda and I will be there for you Shirley.
Terri McConnachie, Prince George city councilor:
Kevin and I are so very sorry, Shirley. You two were always a dynamic duo and the loss of Bill to you and your family, and to our community, is profound. We hold you in our hearts.
Tim Bennett, Big Brothers Big Sisters, executive director, School Board 57 trustee:
Shirley I am so sorry for your loss. Thoughts with you and your family. Bill will be missed.
Bailey Grose, community member, founder of the global social media movement Hearts of PG:
Oh my Shirley, I have gotten to know how wonderful and amazing you are over the last few months since we became "Facebook friends" and my heart broke for you reading this. If your husband is half as sweet as you are he was an incredible man. I'm sorry I never got to meet him.
