William James Byrne

Passed peacefully away at the Health Science Centre, in the presence of his loving family, in his 81st year, William James Byrne of Holyrood. 

He was predeceased by his parents: William and Mary Byrne and sisters: Theresa (William) Dahle and Madeline (Frank) Salter. Leaving to mourn with fond and loving memories his devoted wife of 57 years, Rosella, three cherished children: Keith (Pauline), Michelle (Bill) and Glenda (Tim); six precious grandchildren: Keira Scarff (Andrew) and Olivia Byrne, Keirsten and Mark Maloney (Mackenzie), Jacob and Benjamin Healey (and their father Tom). Also leaving to mourn brother Peter (Mary deceased) Byrne, sister Patsy (Byrce) Noble, as well as a number of extended family and special friends.

Bill was a man that never sat idle.  He always had a “hobble” to do or a garden to weed. He was happiest when he was working with his hands. When he wasn’t “puttering” around the yard or renovating his apartments, he was volunteering with an organization that was very dear to his heart, the Star of the Sea.  He had a heart of gold and would do anything for anyone. He had a real sense of humour and loved to make witty comments. 

During his career, Bill worked at Hydro in various roles. He began his association with Hydro when he worked with Shawmont, as an inspector at the Holyrood Generating Station.  Bill worked as a concrete inspector on foundations in the late 1960’s.  He was later employed by Hydro as a construction supervisor and inspector, on terminal stations (Oxen Pond, Hardwoods, Chapel Arm, Burgeo, Hope Brook, Berry Hill, Plum Point, Roddickton and others), on diesel plant construction and renovation (Little Bay Islands, Ramea, Makkovik, Mary’s Harbour, Hopedale, Charlottetown) and at the Happy Valley Gas Turbine, Port Saunders and other numerous projects.  Bill was also involved with the laying of the submarine cable to Change Islands. He loved his job and he had the opportunity to work all around the province. 

Upon retirement, Bill and his wife Rosella became snowbirds and enjoyed their winters in the sunny south and Largo became their second home.  Bill spent his time updating his Florida home and helping others. He loved going to the NL picnics with his wife and friends, cooking up “scoffs'', welcoming his children and grandchildren every Easter and sitting on the patio enjoying a beverage overlooking the lake.  

Resting at Dunphy’s Funeral Home, Holyrood. Visitation will take place on Thursday, September 29th from 2:00 pm - 4:30 pm and 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Cross Catholic Church, Holyrood on Friday, September 30th, 2022 at 10:30 am (for those unable to attend, the service will be livestreamed with the link available below) with inurnment to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, Holyrood.

No flowers by request. As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made to Holyrood Fire Department, 5 Liam Hickey Drive, Holyrood, NL  A0A 2R0 or Holy Cross Elementary Breakfast Program Box 280, Holyrood, NL  A0A 2R0.

 Love Is Eternal