William Matthew “Bill” Kibzey, aged 88, of Thunder Bay, passed away peacefully at Southbridge Lakehead Manor on Sunday, April 12, 2026.
Born on September 7, 1937 in Fort William, he grew up and attended Ogden Public School and Fort William Collegiate. During his school years, he was a passionate young musician and participated in the Ukrainian Catholic Church of the Transfiguration as well as the Fort William Prosvita Society youth groups. As a teenager in the 1950s, he played piano in a quartet called The Polka Hits that entertained at wedding receptions and band competitions throughout Fort William.
Bill began his teaching career right after high school at S. S.#1 Oliver before joining the Fort William Board of Education at Franklin St. School. He later taught at Francis St. and Mc Kellar Park Schools and took on the role of Art Resource Teacher from Central School during the 1970s. For many summers, he worked towards his Bachelor of Education degree with courses often taken in Toronto. He eventually became a Vice-Principal and then Principal at several schools including Agnew H. Johnston, Sherbrooke, Prospect, Claude Garton, C. D. Howe, Cornwall, and Shuniah St., retiring in 1992 after an impressive 35-year career. Even after retirement, Bill stayed connected to education by teaching with Lakehead University Faculty of Education and supervising student teachers for several years.
His warm smile and sense of humor shone brightest when he met a lovely student nurse named Heather Hill while working at Mc Kellar Park School. Captivated by his charm, they tied the knot on October 20, 1962 and enjoyed an incredible life together for over six decades. They raised their sons Mark, Luke, and Jon amidst a lively household on Windsor Street followed by Fairbank Crescent while creating wonderful memories at their family cottage on Trout Lake. Music and art remained significant parts of his life; he loved singing as well as teaching others about music and art. Family gatherings were especially meaningful to him throughout his life where memories were made that would be cherished forever-whether it was painting watercolors or building docks or gardens; Dad’s creativity along with his strong work ethic always stood out.
He is survived by his wife Heather (née Hill), sons Mark (Janelle Brough), Luke (Kathy), Jon (Kim Pressick), grandchildren Ben (Ally), Daniel, Zachary, Jadon, Anna, Jasper, Tess, Jackson , Grace (Corey), Ben (Lauren), along with great-grandchildren Callen and Finn. He also leaves behind brother Jerry (Patti), sister- and brother-in-law Lynda & David Gallant among other family members as well as many long-time friends.
Bill was predeceased by his parents Peter and Anastasia Kibzey (née Wozna), parents-in-law Byrnece and Joseph Nett , brother Morris , nephews Paul Kibzey , Brian Blekkenhorst , niece Christina Blekkenhorst. He also missed dearly all the beloved pets from their family history who are now happily reunited with him.
A heartfelt thanks goes out to Dr. Long for his exceptional care over many years alongside Dr. Osman plus all staff members from Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre who provided support this past year. Our gratitude extends to second floor staff members at Southbridge Lakehead Manor for their attentive care during Dad’s last days.
A Celebration of Life will be arranged for a future date while interment will take place at Mountain View Cemetery.
If desired , instead of flowers , donations can be made to Our Hearts At Home Cardiovascular Surgery Campaign or any charity you prefer which would truly be appreciated.
Condolences may be sent through www. nwfainc. com
