William KAZEMIR
William “Bill” Kazemir of Edmonton, AB, passed away peacefully on February 23, at the age of 83, surrounded by family he loved so deeply.
Born in New Westminster, B.C. on June 10, 1942, Bill carried a lifelong love of engines and adventure. He had a special pride in his Oldsmobile 442, a car he admired not just for its power, but for the memories that came with it. His love of trains led him to a career with CN, a job that allowed him to see the country and experience life on the rails. Eventually, that journey brought him to Edmonton, where he chose to build a new path for himself in Computer Programming at the University of Alberta. What began as a new direction became a 37-year career marked by dedication, and quiet accomplishment.
Bill was a man of many talents. He was an incredible cook, always happy to share a meal (the best perogies EVER), but it was in his garden where he truly found joy. His backyard was his sanctuary — overflowing with vegetables, fruit, and his famously large garlic bulbs that he grew with pride. Sharing the harvest with family brought him immense happiness.
Above all else, Bill was devoted to his family. Nothing meant more to him than time spent with his children and grandchildren. Whether he was in the audience at a concert, cheering from the sidelines at a game, attending cheerleading competitions and horse shows, driving to and from school, playing video games, hosting backyard adventures and annual sleepovers, he was present, dependable, and full of love. His grandchildren brought him endless pride and laughter.
Bill also enjoyed his weekly casino visits, where he approached slot tournaments with the same competitive spirit and determination, he brought to everything he did.
He will be deeply missed by his loving wife, Bev; his children, Trevor (Diane Smetheram) and Nadine (Rob Vavrek); his grandchildren, Kendyl (Anton Shepelevich), Camryn, Madison, and Sam; and his sisters, Diane (Roy Jones) and Mariane.
He was predeceased by his parents, Nicholas and Anne, and his brother, Jim.
A Celebration of Life will be held on June 10, 2026 — what would have been Bill’s 84th birthday — a fitting day to honour a life so well lived. Details will follow.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alberta Cancer Foundation.
Dear Aunty Bev, Nadine, Rob, Trevor, Diane, Camryn, Kendyl, Madison and Sam and Diane and Marianne: I am sending you hugs, our thoughts, and prayers. We are sorry to hear of Uncle Bill’s passing. He was such a positive, generous, kind and caring husband, Dad and Grandpa. And a cool uncle. We will remember his smile and his laugh always. Love Dana Dale Seamus and Andrew
Bev, family and friends
I know that no words can take away the deep pain you must be feeling and will continue to feel. May your love and memories sustain you during this time and throughout the remainder of your lives as you cherish the memories and grieve the loss simultaneously.
With much love
Truth
Bill was such a wonderful brother in law to James and Michelle and uncle to Catherine, John, Joseph . Bill be forever remembered and missed by The McLaughlin Family
My Condolences Bev, Nadine & Trevor and all of your family circle. Thinking of you all during this difficult time. All my best to all of you.