Obituary of William John Orr

William John Orr, MD, FRCSC

Died peacefully after a short illness on March 26, 2018. Bill was born in Niagara Falls on September 19, 1920. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Edith in 2003, and his son Don in 2009. Much loved father of Jim (Sally), Bill (Manon) and Bob (Judy). Beloved grandfather of James (Emily), Sarah, Katie (Jamie), Heather, Graham, David and Anne. Very proud great grandfather of Azalea and Pierce.

Bill graduated in medicine from the University of Toronto in 1943. After serving in the Army Medical Corps, he completed the Gallie Surgical Program in Toronto. He moved to St. Catharines in 1952 and served as Chief of Surgery at the Hotel Dieu Hospital and at the St. Catharines General Hospital.

 Bill was instrumental in establishing the Niagara Children’s Centre, an early leader in treating and caring for children with physical, developmental and communicative disabilities. He served as the Founding Chair and was the Medical Director for 30 years.In 2014 the Board of Directors established a tribute award in his name to honor his legacy.  Bill was a Rotarian for over 65 years and served as President. He was a warden of St. George’s Anglican Church. Bill has been honoured with many awards including the Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship and the Glen Sawyer Service award from the OMA.

He spent many happy summers with his family at his log cabin on Lake of Bays. Bill was a deeply humble man and committed to love of his family and service to others. His kind and gentle spirit will be sadly missed.

Visitation will be at George Darte Funeral Home, 585 Carlton Street, St. Catharines, on Wednesday, April 4, from 6 to 8 pm. The funeral will be at St. George’s Church, 83 Church Street, St. Catharines, on Thursday, April 5, at 2 p.m.

If desired, donations to the Dr. W. J. Orr Fund at the Niagara Children’s Centre, or to St. George’s Anglican Church, St. Catharines, would be gratefully appreciated.