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EISEN, William Baer

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Eisen, William

(September 21, 1926 - November 11th, 2019) - It is with heavy hearts that Bill’s nieces Dorothy McParland, Marlene Perreault (Mike), Karen Murray (Scott), Colleen Parker (Tom), and Sharon Robertson (Bob) announce the passing of William Baer Eisen. Bill was recently predeceased by his loving wife of 60 years Madeleine and his parents Harry and Dora Eisen of Toronto.

Bill is survived by his brother Mickey Eisen (late Betty) of California, his son Michael Eisen & daughter Gloria Ryan both of Toronto, many nieces and nephews, grandchildren Leslie (Sacha), Samantha, Marnie (Alan) and Jason (Belsi), and 5 great grandchildren.

Before arriving in North Bay, Bill was a member of the Irish Regiment of Canada from 1943-1952 (SGT). In 1953, he arrived in North Bay as an Instructor for the Canadian Army. He went on to hold many positions with the Algonquin Regiment as Regimental Sargent Major (MWO, CWO) and from 1979-1984 he was DSM, CWO of the Northern Militia District. When Bill retired from the Militia, he transferred as Captain into the CIL where he became a Cadet Instructor. In his spare time, he enrolled in the Recreational Leadership Program at Canadore College where he was awarded his Diploma in 1980. From 1968 to 1992, Bill was the Director of Recreation at the North Bay Psychiatric Hospital.  Post retirement, he continued to offer his time at the Psychiatric Hospital to better the life of the patients. In addition, he volunteered his services at the North Bay Legion, Branch 23, as Executive (3rd, 1st Vice as well as President in 1988-89). He held other positions as District Sargent at Arms, Legion Parade Marshall & Ceremonial Chairman. His philosophy was to serve, not volunteer and was often quoted as saying “I do not volunteer. I serve the Legion as I served my Country”.
Bill was a very well decorated soldier. His most prestigious awards were the Diamond Jubilee Medal presented to him by Queen Elizabeth II, the Palm Leaf, and the Commemorative Medal for the 125th Anniversary of Canada, presented to him by the Governor General. He was recipient of a Lifetime Legion Membership, Legionnaire of the Year, and was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation & Merit.

As a civilian, Bill continued his community involvement. He served on the Canadore College Recreational Advisory Board, YMCA Board and was a member of the Canadian Mental Health Association. He was an Inspector for the OPP Auxiliary receiving their civilian award, President of the North Bay & District Minor Hockey Association, Youth Camp Counsellor, Chief Official for the North Bay Community Fastball Association and Annual Santa at the many functions throughout the city.

Bill had a genuine caring of others and was a well-respected citizen. He touched so many lives with his positive leadership & his unwavering commitment to community betterment.  He will be greatly missed.
We love you Uncle Bill.

Thank you to Dr. Prins and the wonderful staff at Cassellholme where Bill resided for the past year.  Additional thanks to the wonderful staff at Empire Living Centre where Bill lived prior to his transfer to Cassellholme. Visitation will be held at HILLSIDE FUNERAL SERVICES on Friday November 15th from 2-5 p.m. (Legion Services at 2:30 pm). Service at the Sons of Jacob Synagogue Friday evening at 7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Bill and Madeleine Eisen Memorial Scholarship Fund would be gratefully acknowledged by the family as a token of remembrance to Bill’s passion for the betterment of the North Bay community.




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