CTV News Montreal

Updated: Sat Nov. 07 2009 1:31:08 PM

ctvmontreal.ca

Bill Spears, a community activist and former Dollard-des-Ormeaux city councillor, has passed away.

He died suddenly at his home on Thursday, at the age of 73.

Spears made a name for himself defending the rights of English-speaking Quebecers.

In 2007, he demanded an apology from longtime Snowdon city councillor Marvin Rotrand for referring to certain West Island residents of demerged suburbs as "ugly anglos".

Spears was also a former Montreal police officer, and actively involved in helping sick and disadvantaged children.

His family remembers him as "a good and decent human being, a beautiful soul who cared for people in more ways than one."

He is survived by his wife, her two sons, and his three children.

His funeral will be held Tuesday, Nov. 10 at 10:30 a.m. at the J.J. Cardinal Funeral Chapel located at 2125 Notre Dame St. in Lachine.

Please Add Comments

DonnaThiel,Huntingdon,Quebec
Bill Spears was a saint among men. May his family and friends be comforted. He had courage when it was a rare commodity. May he rest in peace.

Frederic Serre
He was tireless, enthusiastic and and, boy, he loved making headlines. But Bill was legendary, a true raconteur -- a man who did it all, from law enforcement to politics and community involvement at every level. His energy was contagious. Bill loved life. He was bold, brash and beloved. When I worked as a journalist back in the 80s and 90s, it was Bill who gave the best scoops. Farewell, my good friend. It is now time to rest -- a well deserved rest. We will miss you.