April 20, 1970 - December 12, 2022
In loving memory of
It is with profound sadness that we announce the death of our much-loved son, brother, cousin, nephew, and uncle - Bill Keserich Jr. Bill passed peacefully in his sleep on Monday, December 12th at the age of 52. His sudden and unexpected death has left a huge hole in our family and as the days go past, we find it hard to accept he is gone and still expect to see him walk in the door. He leaves behind his parents: Bill and Wendy; sisters: Michele, Susan, Judy, and Jane; brothers-in-law: Murray, Damon, and Norm; his nieces and nephews: Courtney, Josh, Jaden, Mackenzie, Nate, Jack, Meghan, Jordan, and Madison; and his extended family of cousins, aunts, and uncles.
Bill attended Gibbins Road School, Duncan Elementary, Mount Prevost and he graduated from Cowichan Senior Secondary in 1988. He quickly headed to UVIC and received a BA in Political Science and Sociology in 1993. After pursuing several careers, Bill decided to take courses at the Justice Institute and in 2011 he received a Diploma in Negotiation. We all know how Bill enjoyed a good 'debate' and loved to get things started with his sisters many a times.
As Bill continued his journey to find the career he loved, he started working in construction with his good friend, George White. Over the years, mentored by George, Bill discovered his dream job where he could build, create and design. While pursuing his career paths, he continued to play multiple sports. But Bill and soccer went hand-in-hand, and his love for the game took him in many directions. He was a player and a referee; a coach for both youth and senior soccer; and most recently, Technical Director for CVSA -- running camps, clinics and academies. Bill did all of this because of his love for kids and his ability to connect to them. Soccer was his other family, and the relationships he made through the game sustained him until the end.
Bill was known for his easy smile, the constant twinkle in his eye, and especially for his Duck Dynasty beard. He was kind and generous with his time, and those around him -- his family, friends and neighbours -- can all remember the numerous times he offered to lend a hand. Always wanting to make others happy, never expecting anything in return.
Bill was not perfect -- and he would be the first person to remind us of that. He was complex. He was social, yet very private. We saw him as both a realist and a dreamer. He could be infuriatingly stubborn. He loved a good argument -- although he would insist he was 'debating'. Bill loved to read, was a card shark, could beat most in horseshoes or pickleball, loved his beer, and we discovered, was an amateur poet. He loved fiercely, worked and played hard, and most importantly -- cherished his family and friends.
It is hard to believe he is gone. He leaves the world a better place and we are immensely proud of the legacy he left behind. Bill was a good man who was always there for us. To all his other 'families' out there, we thank you for loving and caring for our cherished brother.
You loved me as I was
Don't tell a lie
Just because
Try and recall
An uncle, brother, and son
I loved you all
A friend to everyone
Please be strong
Don't live in fear
My love is not gone
It's okay to shed a tear
- Billy Keserich, March 2013
A Celebration of Life for Bill will take place sometime in the New Year. In lieu of flowers, please consider giving a donation in Bill's name to a children's charity of your choice.
Bill would have loved this.