William "Bill" Paterson

With saddened hearts we announce that William Towns Paterson, of Barrie, died peacefully at home on Friday, May 1, 2026 at the age of 83. His loving wife of 51 years, Jackie, was by his side in his final moments. He is now at peace.

Bill is predeceased by his parents Robert and Eliza Paterson, and his sister Roberta Saldan.

Bill was a proud father to Sheri-Lyn (Bob) and Jeff (Heather) and loving grandfather to Derek (Chloe), Blaire, Leanne, Jamie-May (Trevor), and Adam, as well as four great-grandchildren. (We will always think of our Papa when we stare up at the night sky!) Bill will be deeply missed by his fur-baby, Maggie, whose days were brightest by his side.

Born in Glasgow, Scotland, Bill emigrated to Canada at the age of 9 with his family. Growing up in Brampton, Bill excelled in high school football, track and field, and swimming. His love of the water came with him from the Montrose beaches of Scotland to swimming, diving, and sailing with his children and grandchildren. Bill joined the OPP at 22, where, known as “Hammer” he excelled in his career before retiring as Detective Staff Sergeant at the age of 52. He and Jackie enjoyed their retirement years sailing on Lake Simcoe and Georgian Bay, as well as many sailing adventures with close friends to the British Virgin Islands.

Family and friends will be received at Legacy Funeral Home, 55 Cedar Pointe Drive, Barrie on Friday, May 22, 2026 from 11 a.m. until time of Memorial Service in the Chapel at 12 o'clock p.m. A light lunch will follow. A private family interment will take place at a later time.

If so desired, memorial donations to Hospice Simcoe would be appreciated.