Edward Joseph Williams passed to another dimension shortly after midnight on the 23rd of December 2023, at the Royal Jubilee Hospital, surrounded by his wife, children, and close family. He died peacefully, suddenly, and well before his time at 67 years young!
Eddie was born in Edgeworthstown, County Longford, Ireland in 1956, to Marcella Drew and Joseph Williams and grew up on the family farm in Milltown, County Westmeath, Ireland. While he enjoyed the hard work with his three brothers, farming was never his calling and he kept running from it… literally. Eddie was an Irish track and field star who competed in the Decathlon (Ten different events that required incredible fitness.) Eddie was most fond of his high jump exploits and could leap over a precariously placed bar in a single bound. Even quoted as being “the best all-around athlete ever for Westmeath.” If you didn’t know Eddie was a track legend, then you must not have known Eddie well because he would have told you. His athletic exploits took him all over Europe and South Africa for competitions and training and he was a founding member of the Mullingar Harriers Athletic Club. While he wasn’t running around in short shorts, Eddie completed a diploma in Architectural Building Technology in Waterford, Ireland.
On one of those track and field meets, he met Lorraine Kelly, on a double decker bus in England. After communicating via pen and paper for a time, the romance blossomed and he immigrated to Canada in the early 80’s, got married, and landed a job as an architectural technologist immediately. After his first daughter and son, Eddie was diagnosed with cancer and had to undergo extensive radiation and operations. Although he recovered, and lived the rest of his life in remission, his track and field days came to a close. Eddie had two more daughters. That’s correct, three daughters and only one son. Our sympathies go out to Eddie and his son. In 1993, Eddie and the family moved from Edmonton, Alberta, to Victoria, British Columbia. While Eddie had hung up his cleats, he wasn’t quite finished being an athlete and set his sights on competing in rowing for the Victoria City Rowing Club. Rowing became a family event as he dragged his older children half asleep, and often in protest, in the wee hours to be the coxswains. Two of his daughters even found a love for the sport despite it, his son did not. The community aspect of the club appealed to Eddie and with time he became president of VCRC for a stint.
One could argue whether Eddie was more passionate about architecture or track and field. In either case he excelled, always gave 100%, and never missed an opportunity to talk about either, even if you had zero interest. In 2000 he took his skills to the next level by becoming a
registered Architect with the AIBC after completing the syllabus program through the RAIC. He worked for a couple firms in Victoria and Vancouver gaining a vast amount of experience in commercial applications.
In 2004, the foundation of Eddie’s first marriage began to show some structural issues that they couldn’t fix together. He entered a Rebuilers program a year later; a fitting program name for Eddie who was always renovating something. The program directors asked if Eddie could be a mentor. Luckily Wendy Hampton (Robertson) was also needing a remodel and entered the program under the watchful eye of said suave mentor. After dating for a while, they realized that they had the knowledge and love to make their vision together a reality. Eddie and Wendy married in 2008 and the fun of blending grown children into one family commenced. In 2011, Eddie started his company Steller Architectural Consulting. Eddie, the quirky guy that he was, had a fascination with being exact with technical specifications and also how design could make an individual feel in a space. This juxtaposition paired with going above and beyond for clients made Eddie a victim of his own success and often he had to turn down work. It was during this time running his own firm that Eddie truly found his stride and evolved into Steller Ed. If there was something more important to Steller than work or sports, it would be his family. He was dependable and selfless. Always available if someone needed help and constantly worrying if he had done enough. Even with the hectic work schedule, he was devoted to his wife, children, and his brothers, Peter and Paddy. Eddie had an enormous heart and often was a bit of a softie!
Eddie is survived by his loving wife Wendy; his children Siobhan (Jeremy), Aaron, Drew (Dan), and Emma (Tom); his brothers Peter and Paddy; step children Russell (Daniela), Amanda (Dallas), and Kevin; and grandchildren Natasha; Ryker, Enver, and Parker.
A service to celebrate the life of Edward Williams will be held on December 30, 2023 at 10:00 am PST at Broad View United Church, 3703 St. Aidan’s Street, Victoria, B.C. For those who are unable to attend, the service will be available through live stream and recording.
https://broadviewunited.org/special-events/
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
www.mccallgardens.com
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Jeremy bryant
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Annemarie Middleton and Adam Gerber We just heard of Eddie’s passing today and are deeply saddened to hear this news. We worked with Eddie at CEI Architecture, and Annemarie even did some contract work for him when he struck out on his own with Stellar Architecture. We hadn’t seen Eddie in a long time, but have never forgotten his infectious smile and laughter. Our deepest condolences to his family. Taken too soon.
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Jennifer Sparks I just learned the sad news of Eddie passing. I’m shocked.
Eddie was such a kind hearted soul, I’ll truly miss him and his wonderful sense of humour.
I’ll never forget the time he included Brad and I in his office Christmas party when I was contracting on my own.
Sending all my thoughts to Eddie’s family and friends. There are no words.
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Colin W. Craig My firm used Stellar Achitecture for specification writing. We always found Eddie very pleasant to talk to and his specifications were all that we required. A very nice human being. My condolences to his family.
Regards,
Colin
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Paul Heduan Sincere condolences Wendy, Siobhan, Aaron, Drew, Emma, Russell, Amanda, Kevin and all your wider family and friends on your loss of that amazing man Eddie.
Genuinely I think I only met him on a handful of occasions, but he made a big impression on me in terms of dealing with adversity and resilience.
The legions of players, supporters, visitors and friends of Milltown GAA owe a debt of gratitude to ALL the Williams family.
Eddie and the Williams family have long been fantastic supporters and benefactors of the club and we were proud to make a small token of appreciation to Eddie a number of years ago.
August 2018 Milltown GAA Cathaoirleach Eddie Somers presents Eddie with a token of appreciation for his support of the club
It was such a lovely ceremony you had for Eddie. In our family home in Ballinlug, Rathconrath, we all sat down as a family to watch it, pray for you all and Eddie and marvel at such a life he lived. Ar deis Dé go raibh a anam.
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Eddie and Carmel Somers. And family. Condolences to Wendy and all of Eddie’s extended family. We have known Eddie for almost 50 years and he was an absolute gentleman. We had many hours chatting in the Annebrook Hotel in Mullingar sorting out affairs of the football pitch, we would make agreements on a handshake and he was always true to his word. We were shocked to hear of his sudden passing.
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Jim Kerr I just learned today of Eddie’s passing and am profoundly saddened. Although we hadn’t spoken post-covid, I recall well the twinkle in his eye and lightning quick sense of humour. His enthusiastic and capable leadership with the Victoria AIBC Chapter for many years was much appreciated by all involved. We will miss his down to earth manner and generous spirit. My sincere condolences to his family, work colleagues and friends. He will be sorely missed. RIP Eddie.
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Millie Vandale Wendy, I am so sorry to hear of Eddie’s sudden passing. May your love & memories remind you of what you had & may they help comfort you going forward. Not an easy task however the strength & love that is within you will guide you. My heart aches for you
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Ed Prior Absolutely shocked and saddened by Eddie’s passing. I knew Eddie through our work together over many years on numerous projects, and his quick Irish wit was an absolute delight when we met on job sites. We never grew tired of the old gag that “Two Ed’s are better than one”. Characters like Eddie don’t often come our way – he will not be soon forgotten.
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Donna Lynch Wendy – so sad to hear about Eddie. My deepest sympathies to you and the family.
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Randy Slade I am stunned with this news. Eddie was a true personality with so much Irish humour and great friendship in his genes. He never forgot his heritage and used it to his advantage. He teased me as a Newfoundlander. He was special. I won’t forget him. He passed too soon.
My condolences to his family and his staff- they will be struggling without him. All the best to them.
We will miss him. A Irish toast to him. God bless you Eddie.
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Ocean Lu No words can describe how much I appreciate everything about you, Eddie, my Irish Papa…
My heart aches so much that I can not imagine what your family must be going through right now…
One thing that I am sure of is that you must be drinking your favorite Irish Whisky and smiling at all of us from above…
Rest in peace, and please wink at us when you get a chance…
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Terri Carey My dear Wendy, I was shocked and saddened to hear the very sad news that Eddie had passed away, I’m so sorry for your great loss and please extend my heartfelt sympathies to Aaron, Siobhain, Emma, Drew, his brothers Paddy and Peter, and the extended families, May Eddie rest in eternal peace. We will miss his visits to Mullingar, always enjoyed our chats as he sat on the couch as you browsed at our shop. Thoughts and prayers are with you all. Terri, Anne, Lauren and Agnes. ⚘⚘⚘⚘
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Peg Kilmurray Deepest sympathy to Wendy, Aaron, Siobhain,Emma,Drew,his brothers Paddy and Peter, and the extended families on the passing of Eddie, rest in eternal peace.
It is very sad to think Eddie is now deceased. I enjoyed meeting up with him and Wendy every time they came back to Ireland.We always managed a big meal, and a chat.I hope we all meet again one day.
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Joe and Barbara Halligan, Lakenstown Deepest sympathies to Wendy and families, and to Peter and Paddy on the sad passing of Eddie. May he rest in peace.
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Harry Hitchman Condolences to you Wendy and family.
I was shocked & saddened by the news.
Eddie was quite a character & I enjoyed meeting him in recent years. RIP Eddie!
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Terry Bergen My deepest sympathies to Wendy and Eddie’s family and colleagues for your loss. Eddie was a man full of life and character and he has left us far too soon.
I first met Eddie through work. He was an accomplished professional with a keen eye for technical details, but I will remember him most for his kindness, humour, and mentorship – gifts he would share, without fail, with everyone he met.
Along with many others, we will miss Eddie’s presence on projects and probably even more at industry gatherings, where his charm and cheer were something to look forward to. I count myself lucky to have seen his track & field scrapbook, complete with Eddie’s personal narration at one of the Thursday afternoon gatherings he would assemble at Fireside.
Rest easy my friend.
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Phil & Steve Jackson Deepest sympathy to Wendy and the Williams family. We will miss his visits to Milltown and Mullingar. May Eddie rest in peace.
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Margaret Carey Wendy, Siobhan Aaron and family- I’m so sorry to hear about Eddie’s way too early departure. I spent the summer of 89 with Eddie and family, my first oversea trip out of Ireland. And it was all thanks to Eddie. In 1988 when he was visiting Ireland, he encouraged me to go to Canada for a summer. It was a great experience definitely thanks to the hospitality from Eddie and his family who were very kind. Eddie even tried to find me a job before I arrived in Canada. Whilst there I had the pleasure of digging the foundations to one of his house. He was an inspirational man. I hope you’ll catch up with me when you are next in London,UK
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Bev Windjack Rod and I are so sorry, and somewhat shocked, to hear of Eddie’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. We will remember Eddie for his great personality, enthusiasm and dedication to both family and career. Always a pleasure to work with.
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Pat Weafer My deepest condolences to you Wendy and all of Eddie’s extended family. I still feel the shock of hearing the news of his passing.
It was a pleasure getting to know Eddie when we worked together in Mullingar and I enjoyed meeting up whenever we could during his many visits to Milltown & Mullingar. There is no doubt that Eddie ‘fell on his feet’ when he met Wendy and we will keep you and your family in our thoughts at this very difficult time.
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Greg Baynton My sympathies to Wendy and the Williams family for your sudden loss of a wonderful man. Eddie’s character was well described in his obituary- quirky and big hearted stood out for me. Blend that with a witty sense of humour and devotion, and you will know Eddie. Eddie and I did good work while he was the Chair of the local AIBC chapter, plotting from time to time over his favourite glass of white wine. It was an honour and privilege to have known Eddie, and to work and laugh with him. He and is Irish charm will be missed by many. Rest in peace my friend.
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Hans and Annette Gerig Our deepest condolences Wendy. Words can not describe the shock and sadness of hearing of your loss. May Gods peace that surpasses understanding guard your heart and mind and give you strength for the days ahead
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Frank and Mary Heduan Wendy, we offer you and your family and Eddie’s children our deepest sympathy on his sudden passing. We will miss our chatty get togethers and stories of bygone times. Eddie was great for keeping in touch and we always looked forward to meeting you Wendy right by his side. Condolences to his brothers Peter and Paddy. May the Light of Heaven be upon Eddie and may he rest in peace.
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Martin Doyle So very sad to hear the news of Eddies passing. Eddie was a friend during my school days at CBS Mullingar. I used to sit beside him during the science class. I always enjoyed his company and good humor. He was a true gentleman and an all round good and decent bloke. I wish to express my sincere condolences to his wife and family. May his gentle soul rest in eternal peace.
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Laurie Postma.... Wendy, I’m truly sorry for the loss you and your family has endured…. You’re in my thoughts and prayers….✌♥️….
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Kim and Richard Linzey REMEMBERED JOY
I could not stay another day,
To love, to laugh, to work or play;
Tasks left undone must stay that way. And if my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered joy.To Wendy and family, in your grief may you find some solace from these words.
Richard and I thought of Eddie when we found this reading. We shared a lot of Joy with him. XO
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Marilyn Poutanen Eddie was a breath of fresh air, so fun and conscientious to work with. He had so much knowledge and it was always wrapped in a funny story or joke. So fitting to be celebrating his life in a beautiful project he just completed.
Heartfelt sympathy to you Wendy, your family and the whole Steller Flock.
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Claire Pinkett Wendy, my heart aches for you and your families. What a lovely tribute to your Steller Eddie. I pray you are able to find a reprieve from your grief in memories of the happy times you had together. My deepest condolences.
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Tony Clinton Deepest condolences to you Wendy on the sudden passing of our dear friend Eddie.
It was a pleasure to have met you with Eddie on his visits home to meet up with his former school mates and athletic friends in Mullingar .
Eddie, Rest In Peace
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Tom Shaw Remembering Eddie as a classmate during our schooldays in St. Marys CBS, Mullingar, Ireland.
My sincere sympathy to Wendy and to both your families.
It was always a pleasure to meet both of you on your trips to Ireland.
We are all in shock.
Rest in Peace Eddie!!
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Ollie Galagher Deepest sympathy to the Williams Family
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Alicia & Malcolm Smith We are so very sorry for your loss. Praying for friends to comfort you, faith, to uphold you and loving memories to help you smile again.
With sincerest sympathy,
Malcolm and Alicia Smith.
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Dave Peterson You will be missed Eddie. So Glad to have known and worked with you.
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Sharon Crozier Oh dear Wendy. My heart sank as I heard the news of Eddie’s sudden passing. Life never stops throwing zingers at us, but I’m so glad you got to share several years of life with Eddie. May you be comforted by the love shared and the memories made with him. And may you know, in a visceral way, the companionship of a loving, caring God. You are in my prayers.
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Heather Hanson Eddie’s departure was definitely too early. A shock and a sorrow. Though I did not know him well, I always enjoyed our greetings as neighbours and the friendly smile he bestowed. My thoughts and prayers are for Wendy, Eddies children and step children. Hoping you can find comfort in your memories and in the know.edge that love does not die. He will be with you, always.
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Carlos and Shirle Vargas We grieve with you on the loss of your Stellar Eddie, giving thanks for all the gifts he had and shared with others. May God’s comforting presence be your daily stength.
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Richard Grant Always Irish funny, humerous and smiling. I will miss Eddie. Like many British products of the 50’s and 60″ the faulty Lucas and Smiths electrics were subject to premature problems and failure):
I’m sorry to hear of Eddie’s passing. Eddie was the kindest person anyone could have had the pleasure of calling a friend and colleague. Always interested to hear how you were doing and how he could help you. Even though its been a while since we’ve had the pleasure of sharing some cheer, it was a delight to finally welcome him to Newfoundland after so many years working Victoria together. Offering condolences to all the family and reassurance that he is smiling down on all of us!