Obituary of William Rovers

Our father fell asleep in this world and woke up in the next. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of William “Bill” Rovers on June 16, 2025 in his 87^th year.

Born May 5, 1938 in Uden North Bradent, Netherlands. Loving husband of Trudy Rovers (deceased, 2023). Proud father of Annette Sharp (Gord), John Rovers, Michael Rovers (Janice), and Bill Rovers (Yvonne). Loving grandfather of Carrie McKichan (Ian), Rick Sharp (Cassi), Johnathan Rovers, Victoria Rovers, Matthew Rovers (Paige), Michelle Rovers, Rebecca Rovers (Richard), Brooke Trachsel (Scott), Morgan Schumm (Jordan), Samantha McLeod (Zach) and also survived by 15 great-grandchildren.  Brother and brother-in-law to Gerry Rovers (Loretta), Anne Rovers, Wayne Benson, Dina Vanderwyst (John), John Rovers (Lissette), Corrie Siroen, Josie Van Moorsel, Nelly Verwaayen (Tony), Joanne Verwaayen (Ted) and Gerry Siroen.

Predeceased by his parents Lamberta Van de Venne and Johannes Rovers and parents-in-law Marie Verhallen and Gerald Siroen, siblings and siblings-in-law Catherine McDonald (Bernie), Bert Rovers, Merna Vermeeren (Gerry), Arnold Siroen (Joanne), Anthony Siroen, Martin Siroen (Whilhelmiena), Evan Wardell, Mary Vanbree (Tony), Arnold van Moorsel and Lieva Siroen.

Mom and Dad immigrated separately to Canada where they met and fell in love. The life they made was full of love, life, dancing and cards. A pillar of our community, he dedicated his life to volunteering for various sports and service groups in St. Marys. His unwavering faith and spirit shone brightly within the Holy Name of Mary Parish, where he truly made a difference. Bill was not just a farmer, he was a builder of dreams; having worked in construction and owning his own business and then selling real estate, he proudly owned Prospect Hill Campground, where countless memories were made. He always had an open heart and helping hand, eagerly scooping up kids and their friends for adventures, always willing to take them anywhere they needed to go. No words can express how grateful we are for the incredible role he played in our lives and we will miss him deeply. We promise to keep all the beautiful memories alive in our hearts. Rest in peace Dad. Your love and kindness will continue to guide us.

Our family would like to thank all the staff at McGarrell Place in London, where Dad lived the last months of his life, for making him feel loved, welcomed and cared for. To the nurses and staff at McGarrell, your compassion did not go unnoticed, and we are forever grateful. To Dr. Lowe, who’s skills, patience and care was outstanding, we thank you.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation at the Andrew L. Hodges Funeral Home, 47 Wellington St. S. St. Marys, June 26^th from 2 – 4 & 7 – 9 pm. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at HOLY NAME OF MARY PARISH, Northeast corner of Peel St. N. and Widder St. E., on June 27, 2025 at 1pm. Interment in Prospect Hill Cemetery. Reception to follow in the Community Hall at the St. Marys Pyramid Recreation Centre, 317 James St. S. St. Marys.

Click here to view a video of the Funeral Mass.

Memorial Donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society Huron Perth.