September 24, 2018
Dr. William Roy St. Clair, born in Dublin, Ireland, passed away peacefully at the Village at Mill Creek in Kelowna - his home for the last seven years - with family at his side on September 24, 2018 at the age of 94 years.
He is survived by his partner in later life, Betty Little of Kelowna, and his children: D'Arcy Knox, Jane Logan, Jill Robertson (George), Deborah Jackson (Jeff), John St. Clair (Isabella Morrison) and Tara St. Clair (Gareth Corry); 8 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; and many loving nieces and nephews. Also survived by Betty's family: David (Kathy Smith), Carolyn Walsh (Tim Guidi), Stephanie (Kim Staus), Phil and Brad (Phim) who all held a special place in his heart. Roy was predeceased by his brother Ian, sister-in-law Ann and their daughter Lorna.
After qualifying as an internist and earning a Fellowship from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons in Edinburg, Roy immigrated with his family to Edmonton where he juggled family life with his career as an internist in addition to a busy general practice. He was the driving force in the development and start-up of the Cardiology Stress Testing unit at the Grey Nuns Hospital where he was also Chief of Staff. Roy garnered praise as a superior clinical teacher at the University of Alberta Department of Medicine. Totally dedicated to his patients, he was highly respected by them as well as his colleagues at every level.
Retiring in 1995, his curious mind led him to travel, photography, language studies, reading, computer technology, music, golfing, a myriad of academic courses on various subjects, and of course, cooking - at which he excelled. Roy had also obtained his pilot's licence in his 50's which led to many interesting flights across Western Canada.
Roy followed his heart to the Okanagan to join Betty. He cherished their time together, laughing, travelling, spending time with both her family and his. Roy was a man of quiet distinction who left an indelible impression on all whom were lucky enough to know him. His thirst for knowledge, work ethic, honesty, sincerity, sense of humour, humility, storytelling and commitment to family was renowned. There is so much more that can be said about this incredible man. He will be greatly missed.
Our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the staff at Kalamalka at the Village at Mill Creek, and to Dr. Rachel Carver who tirelessly attended to our beloved Roy.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.springfieldfuneralhome.com.
