SALMON, WILLIAM (BILL) AMBROSE With heavy hearts, we share the news that on Friday, May 1, 2026, Bill passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family. Bill will be greatly missed by his beloved wife and partner in everything, Carmen; his daughters, Alana (Will) Georgas and Marissa Salmon; and his cherished grandchildren, Lia and Ben Georgas. He will also be dearly missed by his sister Joan (Dave) Preston; his adored four-legged friends, Murphy and Scout; and his extended family including nieces; nephews and cousins near and far. Bill was predeceased by his parents, John Thomas (“Jack”) and Mary (“Maizie”) Salmon and his sister, Patricia (Wayne) Silverson.
Bill grew up on a farm in Smiths Falls, Ontario and this upbringing shaped much of who he became. He loved animals and the great outdoors, found joy in puttering, building and fixing things of all shapes and sizes, and always had an eye for that unmistakable John Deere green. Bill enjoyed a varied and interesting career that defies easy categorization. A cartographer by trade, he began his career at CP Rail and went on to hold a range of roles in the real estate sector, including property manager, mortgage broker, developer, and independent consultant. Bill was particularly proud of the work he did supporting the acquisition of over 1000 acres for the Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trust, helping to preserve and protect this land for years to come.
Outside of work, Bill lived a rich and full life. He was a loyal friend and could always be counted on for thoughtful advice whether it was about buying a car, planning a vacation, or choosing a dog (Golden Retriever, always). Many happy days were spent at the family cottage on Long Lake in Bala, where Bill could often be found at the helm of a boat, reading a good book, or barbequing on the back deck. The family farm, which he called home for the past 30-plus years was a cherished gathering spot for family and friends. Bill loved nothing more than sharing these special places with others, and over the past few days, we have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and stories of how he touched so many lives.
Above all though, Bill loved his family, and we loved him. He was a devoted husband, proud father and the perfect “Grampsie”. Memories of Christmases, birthdays, graduations, weddings and millions of moments in between will live on in our hearts forever.
We extend our deepest gratitude to the professional and compassionate team of caregivers who supported our family over the past few months and helped fulfill Bill’s wish to remain at home.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, and details will be shared with family and friends. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Odette Cancer Program at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, or to a charity close to your heart.
~Happy Trails~
Service
Celebration of Life to be held at a later date
Debbi Hansel says
I am so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing .
He was such a caring and kind person when sometimes we didn’t know where to turn .
It was an honour to know such a person with such strong morals .
We will remember him fondly .
Eric Hansel says
I am deeply saddened by the passing of Bill.
I am happy that we shared some stories at Sunnybrook while we were both waiting for admission past the emerg waiting room.
I said to Bill that I’d stop in at the farm once I got fixed up to catch up on everything. Im sad I didn’t prioritize this visit.
God bless.
Jim and Iz Saunders says
Our sincere condolences to Bill’s family. We will always cherish our memories of our next door cottage friends on Long Lake .
We will meet again Bill, on that beautiful shore.
RIP
Jim, Izzy, Mary and Charlene
Danielle & David Kingsbury says
Bill and our Dad worked together at CP. We have fond childhood memories of Bill. Our condolences to Carmen and family.
Bonnie Covell says
Bill always took care of me on our walk home from school, he was someone to look up to. Our sincerest sympathies to Carm and family.
Jeff Armitage says
My girlfriend Jacqui and I rented a home from the Salmons on their beautiful farm. During this time we became engaged, married and then started our family. We often reflect on this time as a very positive time of our lives. The Salmons were simply the best landlord and neighbor. We are very saddened by Bill’s passing. Our condolences to the Salmon family.
Rob Davidson says
Oh dear. Maureen and I are deeply sorry to hear this news. “Bill and Carm” (it was never just “Bill”) were a direct connection to Maureen’s Smiths Falls family and we cherished this. Our hearts hurt this morning.
Doug Groombridge says
I met Bill through the Oak Ridges Land Trust . I have good memories of Bill as he walked me through the process always assuring the steps we were taking as the right thing to do. Although time ultimately runs out for us, our protection of this property goes on forever and I am grateful to all the encouragement Bill gave me.
May God be with Bill and his family.