November 24, 1929 - October 6, 2020
Willy Vandenbilche passed away on October 6, 2020 in the Golden and District General Hospital at the age of 90 years.
Willy was born in Poperinge, Belgium on November 24, 1929 and immigrated to Canada with his family in 1947. He lived in Golden since 1965.
Predeceased by many family members and friends. He is survived by his loving wife Doris of 58 years. Children; Grant (Rosanne), Troy and Sandy. Grandchildren; Alexandra, Kaitlyn, Sydney, Braydon, Kaden and extended families.
Willy learned the Black Smith trade as a teen in Belgium and transferred those skills to become a Collision Repair Technician in Canada. His entrepreneurial nature found him starting Vandenbilt Auto Body Ltd, a business still serving Golden and the Columbia valley today.
Willy was an honest, positive spirited man. He respected his customers, loved his family and cherished his friends. He was dedicated and hard working with everything he did. He was empathetic and kind to everyone in his life, always willing to take the shirt of his back to help a stranger in need.
He brought joy and brightened every day with a great sense of humour. When he wanted to relax, he liked to go flying. He said "up here you get the feeling that there is more above us to hold us up here. Willy believed in the "good" of humans and that is why we loved him so much.
Thank you to the Doctors and Hospital staff in Vernon and Cranbrook. Also, a big thank you to the doctors, hospital staff and home support staff in Golden for all their excellent care!
Online condolences may be sent to Willy's family through his obituary at www.hindmanbowersfuneralhome.com
Hindman Bowers Funeral Home