William (Bill) J Bagrie passed away in Red Deer on July 20, 2019, a month before his 95th birthday. Bill was born in Red Deer on August 19, 1924. He is survived by twin siblings, Donald and Doreen, her husband Garnet, nephew Wayne (Karen) Ritchie, niece Charlene (Bill) Wiggers and great nieces and nephews Tyler, Emily, McKenzie and Lyle. He was predeceased by his parents, William and Mary, and by his sister Eileen.
Bill was the consummate agricultural producer. Along with his brother Donald, he dedicated his life to the absolute highest quality possible, in everything he produced. The list is long, from certified seed to malt barley, forage sought by the most discriminating equestrians and dairy producers, as well as purebred cattle and finished beef. Above all else, Bill was a stockman. Improvement of his horned hereford cattle genetics provided his greatest satisfaction. Cattle unsuitable for seed stock, were meticulously finished, and direct marketed as rail grade beef. Bill thought this was the only way to be sure his breeding decisions were on the right track. As an active participant in the hereford industry, Bill enjoyed nothing more than showing his purebred cattle, and accumulated a collection of ribbons and Grand Champion banners along the way. Visiting with his fellow cattlemen at bull sales from Calgary to Lacombe always made him smile, and he cherished all of his counterparts and customers as friends, some from as far away as Ireland and the US. Although farming was Bill's life and passion, he did enjoy one special recreation. There was not a winter storm severe enough to keep him from an evening of curling with his friends in Penhold. He never missed a Farmers Bonspiel, even when his legs failed him and relegated him to the spectators lounge. Bill's cheerful demeanor and congenial manner made him an exemplary gentleman.
A private family service will be held. Condolences may be sent to Bill's family at www.parklandfuneralhome.com. Donations may be made to the charity of your choice in his memory.
Parkland Funeral Homes and Crematorium