William "Bill" Andrew Dever

Bill was born in Montreal into a loving family. He passionately served his family and faith throughout his life. He attended St. Joseph’s Teachers College which was the foundation of many long-lasting friendships. Most importantly he met his lifelong love Evelyn Reddy, they were married on June 25, 1960. Together, they started their careers and were soon blessed with four wonderful children. The young adventurous family traveled each summer on many camping trips from coast to coast. In 1972, Bill and Evelyn led the family west moving to Calgary where he began his career with the Calgary Catholic School District. Bill was an inspiring teacher, an exemplary principal and trusted administrator. His successful career of servant leadership culminated as Chief Superintendent where he led 1000s of teachers in over 100 schools serving 50,000 students.Bill served his community volunteering on the board of directors of St Mary’s University and the YMCA of Calgary. He was a local supporter and fundraiser of the Stephen Lewis Foundation. Bill was a man of conviction strongly defending his beliefs. Bill was a lover of all things; literature, art, music, sports (especially Notre Dame Football), travel, nature but most of all people. He was continually learning and enhancing his knowledge on all subjects. However it was his love of teaching that motivated Bill. It was the combination of education and faith that brought forward Bill’s philosophy that each and every child is sacred. He was predeceased by his caring parents Bill and Dorothy and his sisters Patricia, Doreen and Catherine. Bill is survived by his loving wife Evelyn, his son Bill (Shawn Michele) Dever, his daughter Tanya (Brad) Zumwalt, his son Paul (Arlene) Dever, his daughter Alyson (Shawn) Laursen and eleven grandchildren Josh, Katie, Ben, Kallen, Cassie, Noah, Sam, Danny, Sage, Ryerson and Teala, many loving nieces and nephews and countless life long friends. Bill’s smile, wit, mischievous laugh and steady positive encouragement will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. The family experienced countless expressions of love and support as Bill’s health deteriorated. Heartfelt thanks to Dr. Rick Ward for decades of friendship and especially his compassion and guidance in Bill’s final months. GO IRISH! Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Peter’s Catholic Church (541 Silvergrove Drive NW) on Wednesday, June 19, 2019, at 1:00pm. Photos, memories, and condolences may be shared through www.evanjstrong.com. If friends so desire memorial tributes may be made directly to the Bill Dever Memorial Fund online at Calgary Foundation (www.calgaryfoundation.org) or by cheque to the Bill Dever Memorial Fund to the Calgary Foundation,( Suite 1180, 105 12 Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta T2G 1A1)Arrangements in care EVAN J STRONG FUNERAL SERVICES 403-265-1199

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