29 July, 2026
The Royal Alberta United Services Institute is saddened to learn of the passing of Capt(N) William H. “Captain Bill” Wilson (Ret’d), a remarkable veteran, community leader and longtime member of Calgary’s military community.
Captain Bill served as President of RAUSI in 1983–84 and was subsequently recognized as an Honorary Lifetime Member of the Institute. Well known and deeply respected throughout Calgary and Canada’s naval and military communities, his extraordinary record of service extended far beyond his years in uniform. His leadership, enthusiasm and determination helped preserve Canada’s military heritage and strengthen the institutions and communities that carry it forward.
RAUSI extends its sincere condolences to Captain Bill’s family, friends and the many members of the military community whose lives he touched over more than a century of life and service.
William H. “Captain Bill” Wilson
November 5, 1924 – July 27, 2026
It is with profound sadness that the Calgary naval community announces the passing of Captain (Navy) (Retired) William H. “Captain Bill” Wilson on July 27, 2026 at the age of 101.
Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, on November 5, 1924, Bill devoted more than eight decades to serving Canada, both in uniform and through extraordinary volunteer leadership. He enlisted in the Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve during the Second World War, serving aboard HMCS Ottawa and participating in the Battle of the Atlantic and the D-Day landings. He later continued his naval career in the Naval Reserve, retiring with the rank of Captain after 52 years of distinguished service.
Following a successful career with Canadian Pacific and leadership roles with the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympic Organizing Committee, Bill became the driving force behind the Naval Museum of Alberta and helped realize the vision of The Military Museums in Calgary. His unwavering commitment preserved Canada’s naval and military heritage for future generations.
Known affectionately as “Captain Bill,” he inspired countless people through his optimism, generosity and determination. He was appointed an Officer of the Order of Military Merit, received the Alberta Order of Excellence, and earned numerous national honours in recognition of his remarkable service.
Bill will be remembered as a devoted family man, mentor, patriot and friend whose legacy of leadership, service and community spirit will continue to inspire generations of Canadians.
A celebration of life will be held at HMCS Tecumseh, 1820 – 24 Street SW, on Monday, August 10, 2026 at 2 p.m.