Bill Webb October 17, 1963 – August 28, 2023. The TIRF community is deeply saddened by the news of Bill Webb’s passing. He was a friend, advisor, and confidant to TIRF and although he proudly wore blue and red, we think he looked best in TIRF green.
Bill led and served through rugby in many ways. His work through TIRF was truly life-changing. Bill had provided sound advice on TIRF programming, advocated for resources or systems change, and funded post-secondary scholarships, as well as representative rugby bursaries. Bill’s influence on the lives of others was wide and deep in terms of both scope and substance.
Bill was always so kind, and patient. He celebrated the very best in rugby and firmly believed in the potential and possibility through equitable investment in sport throughout its entire ecosystem.
He forged paths where there weren’t any. He boldly asked others to follow or walk alongside side him. He invited others to the table and made sure to hold space for other voices to contribute to a broader vision.
We mourn the loss of Bill, but we are so grateful for the moments he shared with us, the moments he created for others, and the courageous steps he undertook to mend the cracks within the system.
We are thankful for the time and support he gave us and TIRF athletes and extremely grateful for the courage, love, and support of his family that fortified him in all his pursuits. His wife Dr. Agnus Wong; and two children James and Stephen; along with his family and friends, are in our thoughts at this difficult time.
Bill was compelled to do this work, to improve the game, to make it more accessible. Those who were most impacted by his dedication and joyful spirit will see to it that his work, his shared vision, and the playbook he created, will live on.
Obituary and Funeral Details
https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/toronto-on/william-webb-11424562
Self-Care
Grief and loss can take multiple forms. If you find that you are struggling with the news, like us, there are resources out there to help:
- Kids Help Phone
A 24/7, free, confidential, bilingual e-mental health and wellness support https://kidshelpphone.ca/urgent-help - ·Good2Talk Helpline
Ontario’s 24/7 helpline for postsecondary students. Call 1-866-925-5454 or text GOOD2TALKON to 686868 - Hope for Wellness Help Line
Offers immediate mental health counselling and crisis intervention to all Indigenous peoples across Canada. Phone and chat counselling is available in English, French, Cree, Ojibway and Inuktitut. Call 1-855-242-3310. - BounceBack
A free skill-building program managed by the Canadian Mental Health Association designed to help adults and youth 15+ manage low mood, depression, anxiety, stress or worry.
https://bouncebackontario.ca/