William Patrick Burchell

It is with broken hearts that the family of William Patrick Burchell announce his passing on July 24th, 2024, at the age of 76.

Born in Antigonsh on July 21st, 1948, Bill grew up in Sydney Mines. As a young man Bill participated in local sports and was a Master Cadet, excelling as a marksman. During his undergraduate years Bill was an accomplished boxer, retiring from the sport undefeated (according to him!). He would often threaten prospective suitors of his daughter Miriam with his alleged prowess in the ring! After discovering the sport of golf, he became addicted, claiming that while he might not be quite as good as Nicholas but he always ‘looked good’! 

After obtaining a Law Degree from Dalhousie in 1973 Bill practiced under Murray J. Ryan and served as county solicitor for Victoria County. After opening his sole practice, he served as solicitor for his hometown of Sydney Mines prior to amalgamation. In 2023 he celebrated fifty years in practice- a milestone reached by few lawyers. 

Although he practiced all aspects of the law Bill’s passion and forte was criminal law. He was well known and respected in the courts, fearlessly and tenaciously defending his clients often raising novel points of law. If a defence was to be found, Bill would uncover it. Witty and articulate, Bill was a formidable opponent in the court.

Bill loved Sydney Mines and sat on the Board of Directors of Miners Memorial Manor and the Sydney Mines Credit Union. He was an Honourary Member of the Sydney Mines Fire Department holding the rank of Deputy Chief and was actively involved in the department. Bill was also a member of the Sydney Mines KOC and the Sydney Mines Legion and an Honourary Member of the Sydney Mines Sportsman Club. He also served as a member of the board of directors of the Children’s Aid Society.

Nothing made Bill happier than when he was able to help someone. He was generous and caring. Bill was well loved and will be greatly missed.

Bill was devoted to his family. He held a special bond and deepest love for his daughter Miriam – his “treasure”.   Bill is survived by his loving wife, Marguerite, daughter Miriam, granddaughters Moza and Willow as well as his faithful canine companion, Maggie; sisters Anne, Susan and Mary Jane; brother Emmett; several nieces and nephews and his long-time friend and legal assistant Ruth Young.  Bill is predeceased by his parents James and Miriam Burchell, brother Jimmy and nephew Matthew Walker.

Visitation will be held at the John J. Nugent Sydney Mines Firehall, Elliot Street Sydney Mines, on Monday, July 29th from 3-6pm. A celebration of Bill’s life will be held on Tuesday, July 30thrd, at 11 am at the firehall followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers donations would be appreciated to either the Sydney Mines Food Bank or the Sydney Mines Fire Department.

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