William E. Canada

William Eldridge “Bill or Billy” Canada, beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend to many passed away, Friday, June 2, 2023 near Delavan, IL while checking seed corn field progress. He was 61. He was born on April 26, 1962 in Pekin, IL son of Eldridge “Bill” and Joyce (Hailey) Canada who preceded him in death. He was a 1980 graduate of Forman High School. Bill grew up on a farm in the Springlake bottoms thus influencing not only his life’s work of growing seed corn but also his passion for the outdoors. He loved to fish, spending many hours over the local levee and at Springlake. As he grew up and the family moved to town he also became a passionate waterfowl hunter and more than proficient duck and goose caller. Bill constantly challenged himself to improve his ability to call ducks and geese. He competitively called in contests across Illinois and neighboring states to earn the invitation of competing in the World Championship Contest held annually in Stuttgart, AR. Bill competed in the World Championship contest 4 times between 1983-1987 with 6th place being his best finish. Bill worked at Sommer Bros. Seed company in production from 1980-2007 at which time he transitioned to Remington Seeds LLC and planned to retire in August of 2024. He was an avid duck hunter and fisherman. He shared his passion for both with his wife, sons, family and friends creating lasting memories for which they will be forever thankful. Bill’s legacy of love for his family will continue to live on through his sons and the lives they are creating for themselves. As they walk in his footsteps with a strong work ethic, love and commitment to family and friends they will keep making him proud. Bill gave them their love for the outdoors and they will forever honor their legacy by continuing to pass on to following generations the same passion for waterfowl hunting and fishing as well as the importance of preserving the traditions that they were taught regarding the circle of life. He married the love of his life Lori Nowlin on June 11,1988. She survives, as do his sons Bo (fiancée Shelby Berry) Canada & Alex (Maria Benedict) Canada all of Manito and his sister Lori (Jim) Wolfe of Forest City as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Lisa (Canada) Pherigo. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

William E. Canada

April 26, 1962 - June 2, 2023

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