It is with profound sadness, that we as a family, announce the passing of (Bill) William Paul Raymond Ambrose, age 92 years, on February 26th, 2024, at The Dr. F. H. Wigmore Regional Hospital, in Moose Jaw. Dad was born in Moose Jaw, December 14th, 1931, and now rests in the loving arms, of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
At a very young age, Dad embraced the value of working hard, being genuinely dedicated, while putting his heart into everything he would do. His motto was "Be the first one at work and the last to leave. Get up, Dress up and put on your best smile." In the late 1940's, Dad began his career as a Machinist, working for CP Rail, in Moose Jaw and Calgary. It was during this time, that Dad married his long time pen pal and the Love of his life, Jean Bellan, on July 1st, 1952. He poured his heart into balancing his work, church and family life, while helping raise their 3 daughters, Shelley, Sharon and Shannon. (At the same time, experiencing the very ultimate and profound loss of their infant daughter, Sheila Desiree in 1960.)
Dad's genuine passion for reconditioning and repairing industrial equipment, led him to a fulfilling career with Canaday's Apparel Ltd, as a Supervisor of Sewing Machine Equipment, an Instructor at SIAST for the Industrial Mechanic's Trade and the challenging, yet most rewarding opportunity, as a Correctional Trades Machine Shop Instructor, for the Prince Albert Penitentiary Vocational Programs. Dad did not grow tired of working and he actually never stopped! While residing in Saskatoon in the 1990's, (besides his work up in P.A.) he started his own business, “Dr. Bill, The Sewing Machine Doctor." while being in such high demand, with all his expertise, knowledge and commitment to the trade. He later, took on the art of refurbishing and repairing lap top computers. That was one way, dad kept his mind active and always learning. " Just Google It," he would often say! At a very young age, Dad took a genuine interest in filming and developing home movies, while capturing special moments with family and friends, over the course of time. These have been and always will be, treasured memories, to forever cherish. Although dad worked very hard, he still took time out for some leisure activities, while living at The Bentley. He hosted "Chicken Foot" games, every Saturday and took part in Monthly Church Services, when attainable. Dad loved celebrating the seasons and holidays and took part, whenever possible. Everyone loved when he set up his tripod. Always ready and willing to have a part, in bringing joy to others, by sharing his videos with friends and family. Together as a family, we gifted dad with an electric wheelchair, when his mobility had become restricted. He was so proud to drive this down the halls at the Bentley! He called it his Cadillac and even found a mechanical way to lower the arm rest, so he could slide up to the table and enjoy having meals, while sharing special times on his iPad. Dad knew how to turn everything around for the good! He truly knew how to live his life, to the fullest potential.
Dad had an endless passion for connection! Especially during the Pandemic, he was the glue, that kept our family together. Not only did he remain busy, sewing masks for the "Multitudes" but united our family online, by sharing some of his old movies, pictures, video's, emails and text messages with us. We will always cherish dad's ongoing dedication and devotion by staying connected with us. Although it took much effort, he did not give up with his messaging, until his passing.
Dad will always be remembered and admired for his brilliant smile, that would simply light up any room, he would enter! His fashionable choices in clothing, (very dedicated in wearing Canaday's pants, while dressing up every day, like he was going to work! His unconditional love, never ending generosity in giving to others, ongoing optimism, (remained positive, even during life's darkest hours), his Faith, prayer support, encouragement, compassion, patience and mindfulness. Dad will forever be cherished, and his memory will shine on and remain alive, in the hearts of all who loved and knew him.
He is predeceased by his infant daughter, Sheila Desiree, (1960), his parents, Edmund Ambrose (1991), Pauline Ambrose (1995), son in law, Neil Pritchard (1999), brother Jack Ambrose, (2010), brother Gord Ambrose, (2013), grandson in law, Mike Gerbrandt, (2017), grandson, Jason Pritchard (2018), brother Barry Ambrose (2018), love of his life, Jean Bellan (2021). Dad is survived by his 3 daughter's, Shelley (Ken) Street, grand daughter, Julie Gerbrandt (Todd Mowrey), great grandchildren, Janaya, Kianna and Joel Gerbrandt, grandson, Rick Street, (Miranda Marcale), Sharon Pritchard, (Ed Goodwin), grandson, Blake Pritchard and Shane Pritchard( Sherry Azure), Shannon, ( Dave) Jennings, grandson, Linden Jennings, granddaughter, Carly ( George) Schindell, his God daughter, Kathy Tennant, his brothers, Ken Ambrose, Bob (Rose) Ambrose, sisters Pauline Fraser (Glen) Marlyn Antill, Betty - Jean (Larry) Kerwin among numerous relatives on the Ambrose and Gregor side.
A Special Thank you to Dr. Vermaak, for his ongoing personable care and concern, for our dad and family. The doctor's and nursing staff, on the Medical Unit at Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital in Moose Jaw, for going above and beyond with their compassion for Dad, during his hospital stay. The Nursing Staff from Home Care Five Hills Health Region, for their ongoing, personal care for our Dad at The Bentley, over the past 2 years. another special thank you, to Pastor Dave Nelson, (Pastor of Visitation & Senior's Ministry, Church of God) for your ongoing prayers, visitation and support, for our Dad, over time.
In lieu of flowers, Memorial Donations can be made to The Moose Jaw Food Bank. A Graveside Service has been scheduled for a later date.
In living memory of Bill, a memorial planting will be made by W.J. Jones & Son Ltd. Please sign the memorial register at website: www.wjjonesandson.com (Obituaries). Chrystine Dacey- Funeral Director
