December 21, 2021
In loving memory ~
William passed away on December 21st at the age of 73. He was an extraordinary person in so many ways. His creativity, intellect, and interest in everything from unique construction to eclectic music, from restoring old cars to collecting pump organs, from jackknives to old bikes, and his enthusiasm for reusing all sorts of things, made for a busy, full life.
His greatest passion and legacy is the astounding collection of West Coast sea creatures that he created. They are amazing works of art and science. At a future date we will open up his shop for a day or two for people to come have a look.
The family he leaves behind include his sisters, Ricarda, Joan, Heather, and Marjorie; our three wonderful children, of whom he was so proud, Nick (Michelle), Shannon (Chris), and Vince (Nicola), plus five grandsons: Willem, Koen, Jacob, Bruno, and Tristan. And then there's myself. I first met William on a blind date, complete with a butler and a chef . The fun and excitement of life with him carried on for 41 more years. William was a kind, loving, gentle soul. We all had so much more to learn from him. William's absence leaves an enormous hole in our hearts and lives. Our world is a less interesting place without him in it. We will miss him terribly and he will always be treasured.
- Barb van Orden