Willard Blair MacPhail

Captain Willard Blair MacPhail passed away on October 18th, 2001, at the age of 60, as a result of occupational leukemia.

A founding member of the North River Fire Department, Prince Edward Island, in 1965, Willard served as a volunteer firefighter for 37 years, including 27 years as Captain. He was very proud of the department he and his fellow members built and took an active role in not only the fire department service but also in guiding and mentoring new volunteers throughout his career.

Respected for his calm and steady demeanor, he believed in the importance of community and found a deep personal satisfaction in being able to help others in their time of need. Willard enjoyed life and was happiest surrounded by family and friends. Whether at firehall dances, neighbourhood BBQs, community picnics, or entertaining spontaneous visitors in the family kitchen, one could find him laughing and sharing stories and insights or lending a compassionate ear. He was often seen on the road with his beloved dog Daisy, or "checking the fields" - his code for impromptu catchups with the neighbours.

Willard's commitment to helping others, lives on in the friendships he cherished and institutions he helped create, and serves as an inspiration to all who were lucky enough to know him.