William (Bill) Robert Chubb, born May 22, 1934, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, September 7, 2025. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Phyllis; Sharron, the mother of his daughters Kathy and Andrea; his brother Chuck; his sister Joan; six grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. He was predeceased by his beloved son, Chris.
Born in Vancouver, Bill developed a lifelong love of the sea. He also enjoyed tinkering, building model ships, woodworking, and even earned his pilot license. After leaving school, he joined the Navy, serving five years with the Canadian Naval Air and fought in the Korean War. His passion for the ocean endured, and after his military service he pursued a maritime career, achieving his Master’s Ticket in 1963. Bill loved being a tugboat captain, often joking that he was fortunate to be paid for what he would have gladly done for free.
In 1995, Bill retired and moved with Phyllis to West Bank, BC. By 2004, the pull of the ocean brought them back to Vancouver Island, where he spent countless happy hours with his sailboats. He found joy in teaching local children how to sail dinghies through the Deep Bay Yacht Club. Beyond the water, Bill was an avid reader, a lover of fine food—especially Japanese cuisine and cold blueberry soup—and a skilled winemaker whose creations were enjoyed by many.
He treasured his wide circle of friends but also cherished quiet moments of solitude. In recent months, he was especially grateful for time spent with his daughters and dear friends. At Bill’s request, there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, please raise a glass of your favourite beverage in his honour and wish him well on his next voyage.
Fair winds and following seas, Sir.
September 16th, 2025
I met Bill at the monthly luncheons of the Mid-Island Chapter of the Ancient Mariners. He was a dedicated mariner, but due to some of his shenanigans, I’m not sure I would have wanted to be his boss! He tells of the many times he was “called up to the office”. In the relatively short time I have known Bill, I enjoyed immensely hearing his stories. It was also so obvious how much he loved his wife, family, and his cats.
Smooth seas Captain!
September 15th, 2025
Uncle Bill was always just one of the kids. He was always up for adventures and junk food. Bonus points if the adventure including getting junk food at some point. He was also the kind of guy that wouldn't just leave a note saying he'd taken the dog to the beach. Instead he'd doodle a picture depicting where he was and who he'd gone with. It was just more fun that way. I'll miss Uncle Bill's infectious smile and his big hugs.
September 15th, 2025
I saw a note today..it said "cool uncle" - the myth, the man, the bad ass influencer - but it forgot to add: teacher, confidant, encourager, teller of tales, actor of sorts, lover of cats, adventurer, gentleman..... I know that you chose how to live your 91 years, but I thought we had longer...I do thank you for that time and I toast you on your greatest adventure yet.....God Speed. I'm glad you were my "cool uncle"
September 15th, 2025
I'm going to miss this guy something fierce. He had an amazing spirit and was up for any challenge. This photo is from our trip to Costa Rica in 2019. At 85, he decided he was joining us ziplining! He was officially the oldest adventurer the park had ever seen.
I have enjoyed many crepes and glasses of wine over the years. My favourite wine label of his was DAMIFINO, as in damn if I know what kind of wine it is!
My condolences to the Chubb clan. He will be forever remembered
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