Our Tragic Loss – as recollected by Cheryl It’s has been one year since that dreadful day, the 7th of December, 2012. It was a Friday morning and Bill and I talked about his anticipated catch. He called me his prognosticator and it was always exciting to see how close we could come to guessing his catch for the day. We had travelled to Thunder Bay the prior weekend and had so much fun. With Christmas approaching we had plans to decorate the house and decide on some gifts for the kids and grandkids. We said our goodbyes and I love you and the day seemed to be like most others. I always welcomed Bill’s call to say he was home, safe and sound, and he would tell me about his catch. Or, even better, I would see him pulling in the driveway, so excited to show me his catch. The telephone rang and it wasn’t Bill. I received the dreadful news that his boat capsized, that’s all I knew. I kept hearing his reassuring voice saying “I don’t want you to worry, you never have to worry”. I learned to believe and have confidence that no matter what the circumstances Bill would be ok. Oh so many thoughts ran through my mind, I thought this couldn’t be, is this really happening? I tried very hard to remain positive. I called my sons and fortunately they both rushed to my side. It seemed like it took forever to get to Ipperwash Beach where we hoped to receive some good news. When we arrived at the beach, the emergency vehicles were there, the crowds were gathered. I saw Bill’s truck and trailer, just as he left it, along with his half a cup of coffee, that he would welcome when he returned. Where were you? Were you alone? What happened? Were you somewhere getting warm? Is this just a bad dream? Why are all these people here? Do they know something I don’t know? The water was calm, like glass, but it was cold. I was informed that Craig Bressette, Bill’s good friend and helper was with him on the waters. The search continued and the skies became dark, but the helicopters continued to shine their lights and search. Everyone, family, friends and neighbours were searching, everywhere. The community fisherman rallied together with hopes of finding Bill and Craig. On Saturday, the search continued but midday it was called off because the waters became rough. Later that same day, the skies opened and a beautiful, double rainbow appeared. Was this a sign? Billy, in his relentless pursuit to find you, came upon your toque. It is a terrible thought to think that this may be all we find. What happened? Where are you? Early Sunday morning, I received the call, they recovered Bill. The beach was dark and quiet. Bill’s sister Phyllis told me he looked peaceful and you left this earth a happy man. I know that to be true. We had so much love and happiness and continually shared our gratitude for finding each other, later in life, and for our beautiful children and grandchildren. Now, I see you, dressed as you were, in all your fishing attire. This wasn’t supposed to happen. My heart is breaking. You do look at peace. I cry, kiss you and say goodbye. This cannot be happening. Why? Oddly enough the rainbow was the clue. The rainbow was precisely where Bill’s boat capsized and where his body came in to shore. Where was Craig? What happened? The questions all remain. On Sunday, the search continued for Craig. The search and rescue were going in the waters, precisely where the boat overturned. We were relieved and comforted that Craig was recovered. All weekend the fire burned and helped to keep us warm. The Kettle Point community provided so much support, love and caring with blankets, food and hot drinks. They too realize what an incredible loss this is to their community. We brought Bill home and he rested there, in his familiar surroundings, with family and friends close by all the time. The drummers and firekeepers were there around the clock. We shared stories and tried to come to terms with this unexplainable event. Family, friends and the entire community were so supportive and provided endless amounts of food and refreshments. Bill’s funeral was a beautiful tribute to a beautiful and respected man. A day doesn`t pass that I don`t think of Bill. The questions still remain and probably always will. I am grateful for all that we shared. As the saying goes, it’s better to have loved and lost then to have never loved at all. I count my blessings.