William (Bill) Brereton

September 16, 2018
William "Bill" Brereton of Red Deer passed away peacefully with family by his side at the Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre on September 16, 2018 at the age of 53 years. Bill was born in Trochu, Alberta, the youngest of 6 children. Within 1 month of his birth, Bill showed his strength and tenacity, having the first lifesaving operation of his lifetime. In 1971 Bill was diagnosed with a brain tumor. The operation left him paralyzed on his left side, and blind in his right eye. The surgeon told his family that he may live for 6 weeks, or 6 months at the most. Months of radiation followed, and over the course of his lifetime, he endured many more sessions of chemotherapy. In 1996, Bill moved into his own apartment in Red Deer. He kept his apartment in an immaculate condition, and he thoroughly enjoyed his independence. In 2003, Bill suffered a seizure that caused him to lose that independence, and he moved into a group home with new friends that quickly became a new family for him. In 2006, Bill again was diagnosed with brain tumors and again started chemotherapy that lasted for 7 years until 2013. His battle with cancer had lasted almost 47 years. For all the challenges that Bill faced over his lifetime, he never gave up, was always positive, never complaining about his pain or his lot in life. He taught his family and friends the importance of appreciating what one has, and to start each day on a positive note. He enjoyed travelling, camping, bowling, playing cards, listening to country music, but mostly quiet times with family and friends.

He is survived by his mother Margaret Brereton of Red Deer; brothers Doug of Pemberton BC, Donald (Jen) of Lawrencetown NS, Darryl (Janice) of Munson AB, Wes of Red Deer and sister Jean Webb of Red Deer. He is also survived by a niece, numerous nephews and other family members.

Bill will also be missed by his roommates, Devon, Mike, Jason, and Morgan, and his caregivers.

Bill was predeceased by his father, Alexander (Mac) Brereton, and his brother-in-law, Wayne Webb.

A memorial service will be held at the Deer Park Alliance Church, 2960 - 39 St, Red Deer, AB on Friday, September 28, 2018 at 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial donations in Bill's honor be made to the Central Alberta Cancer Centre (Red Deer), 3942 - 50A Ave P.O. Bag 5030, Red Deer AB T4N 4E7.

Condolences to Bill's family may be emailed to meaningful@telus.net.

Arrangements in care of

MEANINGFUL MEMORIALS FUNERAL SERVICE,

Red Deer and Central Alberta, 587-876-4944
MEANINGFUL MEMORIALS FUNERAL SERVICE