William Huggart

William Robert Huggart

Bill Huggart of Treherne, Manitoba passed away peacefully at the Brandon Regional Health Centre on Monday, January 8, 2024, at the age of 91 years.

He leaves to mourn his passing two children, Raymond (Colleen) Huggart and Karen Huggart (Doug); four grandchildren, Carlo, Thomas (Jessica), Joshua and Alexis (Mike); three great- grandchildren, Blakely, Mia and Wyatt; one sister Sadie Wilson; one sister-in-law Patricia Huggart; one brother-in-law Jack Clements; and numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife Gladys Huggart (née Norton) in 2019; his parents, William Huggart and Hazel (née Latimer); one sister Gladys (Len) Adair; one brother Thomas Huggart; one brother-in-law Allan Wilson; Gladys’ parents, Gordon Norton and Margaret (née Mitchell); her brother Bill (Colleen) Norton; her two sisters, Muriel Clements and Margaret Rose Norton.

Bill Huggart was born on August 30, 1932 at the Huggart farmhouse which stands proudly on Section SE 2-8-9 near Rathwell, MB. Bill, the eldest of four children to Bill and Hazel Huggart left an incredible impact on his community. In his early years, he attended school in Rathwell, finding joy in curling and hockey. When he was 16, his dad gave him the option to farm or become a truck driver; a pivotal decision that came to affect the rest of his life. Bill made the decision to drive truck - so he and his dad ordered a new gravel truck. Before the truck arrived, he had rented a farm which changed his life’s path.

In 1954, Bill united in marriage with the love of his life Gladys Norton of Rathwell and shortly after, moved to their farm near Holland. A few years later, Bill’s brother Tom made him a proposition and asked if they could farm together. From that moment on, they started a partnership and farmed for many decades. Their shared commitment, echoed by their wives Gladys and Pat (who were also siblings) made for a long lasting partnership. It was very important to Bill and it was always expressed that their partnership was shared equally. Bill often reflected on their humble start that he and Tom couldn’t find a $20 bill between them. This was contrasted by remarkable growth, where they were able to grow their farm and had the opportunity to start producing potatoes. These were some of the fondest farming memories, growing his farm with his brother. Bill’s dedication to the farm had no bounds - he never retired from the farm. He continued to lend his expertise to his son and grandson, and was even able to operate the combine at the age of 88. In the last few years, he continued to help the farm by making many parts runs and chauffeuring people around the farm with love and care that endeared him to all.

Beyond the fields, Bill was a passionate and supportive member of a 12-step program, in which he belonged for 66 years. This was a testament to his character and resilience. His passion for life extended to the realm of travel, a shared adventure with Gladys that spanned many of the United States. One of their favorite vacation spots to visit was Hawaii. They did all of this together, and with other travel companions, such as his grandson Carlo, and other couples who wanted to join them on their adventures.

Bill’s love for poker went beyond the confines of a card game, he often used it as a metaphor for life itself, comparing life to the game. His poker escapades, from local communities to his poker friend group at Club Regent were filled with camaraderie, and wisdom learned from each hand.

Yet, amidst all his pursuits, Bill loved his family most. He devoted so much time to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren which held a special place in heart. Bill’s legacy will forever echo through the fields he nourished and the hearts he touched.

Funeral Services will be held in the Holland United Church on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at 3 p.m. with Heather Grobb officiating. Overflow seating with audio and video will be available at the Holland Community Hall. The service will be available to view via Live Streaming. If you would like your name to appear in the guestbook, please email your name to office@afh.ca

Memorial donations can be made to the Tiger Hills Health Centre, Box 130, Treherne, MB  R0G 2V0.

Adam’s Funeral Home of Notre Dame, Manitoba in care of arrangements.  Phone 204-248-2201.  To view the service details and leave condolences, please visit www.afh.ca