Obituary of William "Bill" Stern

William "Bill" Fredrick Stern of Camrose passed away Saturday, July 19, 2014 at the age of 81 years. William "Bill" Stern was born in Shepenge, Alberta, son of Ben and Helena Stern. A man of many gifts he was a member of the RCAF, farmer, master welder, avid fisherman and an outstanding musician. Always ready to lend a hand to friends, there was very little he couldn't build or repair. As a young man he performed with his father's band "Ben Stern's Band". Bill served in the Air Force from 1956 to 1959. Upon his discharge he went to a dance, met and wooed Bernice. They were married on June 11, 1962. Bill raised grain and cattle on their farm in Ohaton before making the move to Camrose in 1975 where he and son Charles built their current home. He then spent 10 years at Stelco, earned his welding ticket and eventually joined the Boilermakers in 1981, travelling all over the country to work before retiring in 1996. When not travelling in their motorhome, Bill could be found playing a variety of instruments including the banjo and guitar with his band "The Country Twilights". In the last several years, they could be found most Saturday mornings at the Camrose mall entertaining shoppers or evenings performing at senior's centres and dances. Bill and Bernice have logged many miles travelling to Ontario to visit family and most recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a trip to the East Coast; fulfilling a long held dream to see the other side of the country. A man of deep faith, in recent years Bill was a member of Grace Lutheran Church; a source of great comfort in coming to terms with his illness. While a man of few words, when he spoke people listened. Most recently he served as President of the Bawlf Legion continuing to work for the betterment of others. Bill will always be remembered for his loyalty and friendship. He is survived by his wife Bernice of 52 years, son Charles and partner Nanci, daughter Terina and five grandchildren. He was predeceased by his son Mark. He is missed by everyone lucky enough to have known him. A Funeral Service was held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, July 24, 2014 from Grace Lutheran Church with Rev Greg Kjos officiating. Interment has taken place in the Camrose Cemetery. If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to St. Mary's Hospital Palliative Care Unit, Prostate Cancer Canada, or to the Cross Cancer Institute.