Reverend William McCosh

MCCOSH, Reverend William…..

On Tuesday, January 6, 2015, in his 91st year and after a long illness, The Reverend William McCosh passed away peacefully at McCormick Home, with his family gathered around him. Bill will be lovingly remembered and sadly missed by his wife Edith of 61 years, and his children, Dave, Don (Nancy) and Grant (Barbara). Bill will also be fondly remembered by his grandchildren and great-grandson. Born and raised in New Brunswick, Bill graduated from Mount Allison University and Pine Hill Divinity Hall. During his last two years of Theology, he served at St. David’s Bible Hill, Truro, and was ordained in 1954 by the Maritime Conference. He served two years in that Conference at Silver Falls United, Saint John, NB. He then accepted a Home Mission Board appointment to develop a congregation in a new mining community in Northern Saskatchewan and later he received a call to the paper mill town of Hinton, Alberta. In 1961, Bill was called to St. Luke’s, Sarnia where the manse and Christian Education facilities were built during his pastorate. Bill also served at churches in London, Sarnia, Point Edward and Thedford. He gave valuable service on Presbytery, Conference and National Boards in Stewardship, Evangelism and Social Services and Finance and Administration. He has represented the United Church of Canada at various industrial Missions and Seminars in Canada, the USA and Europe, and served several summers as RCAF Chaplain. Bill retired in 1990 allowing him more time to spend with his family that he loved so much. He spent many days working in and enjoying his beautiful garden. Friends will be received by the family from 11:30 – 12:30 pm on Saturday, January 10, 2015 at Metropolitan United Church, 468 Wellington Street, London, ON N6A 3P8, where the celebration of Bill’s life will be held at 1:00 pm, with The Reverend Dr. Jeffrey P. Crittenden officiating. Memorial donations will be gratefully acknowledged and may be made to Metropolitan United Church – Memorial Fund or Alzheimer’s Society, 435 Windermere Road, London ON N5X 2T1. Cremation London & Middlesex, entrusted with arrangements 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

1. Dear Edith,
   So sad to read that Bill passed away this week. Strangely enough you and Bill crossed my consciousness this week. Sometimes in our lives we cross paths with people that remain in our memories, Bill was such a person. Sincerely Rudy Bogaert

2. Our heart felt sympathies to the McCosh clan. Bill was a great neighbour for many years. Had some great backyard chats with him. Have missed those chats for awhile now.
   Sincerely Eric and Joan

3. Dear Edith and Family
   We were saddened to here about Rev. McCosh. Memories come to mind. The one I clearly remember is you and I were working the day shift. Rev. McCosh came to visit a patient. He asked me to accompany you and him. As we walked into the room, he stood between us and said “I married these two”. I will always remember his wittiness and humour. Our heartfelt sympathy to you and your family. Charlene and Norm Peters – Sarnia

4. Dear Edith:

   I was sorry to hear of the loss of your life partner, Bill. He had a great sense of humour and a way of introducing subtle wit in his sermons which got his point across. Never afraid to confront an issue or an individual on a difference of opinion.

   I was influenced positively for having known him and served with him at St Luke’s. The boys will be a comfort to you in your sorrow as well as the fond memories you have of the great life you shared with him.

5. Dear Don, Nancy, Nicole and Zach:
   We were sorry to hear of the loss of Don’s father and wish that we could be with you at this time.
   Sincerely,
   Sandy and Bud

6. Dear Mrs. MCcosh:
   Our heart felt sympathy to you and your family.
   Sincerely, Jim & Patti O”Neill

7. So sorry to hear of Rev. McCosh. I remember him so well. Was a young child and member of St. Lukes back in 1961 when he arrived in Sarnia. He played such a positive influence on my widow Mother and her four young children. He was so supportive of everyone in his congregation and appreciated me teaching Sunday school there and playing the piano whenever he needed someone. I have wonderful memories of him , as I’m sure you do as well. Treasure all of them. He was a wonderful man. My sincere sympathy.

8. Dear Mrs. Cosh and Family: I am sorry that I am not able to join you to pay my respects in person. Rev. Cosh dedicated his life to serving The United Church at a time when you were no doubt a key partner in his ministry. Please accept the sympathies of the London Conference staff and leaders as we too grieve his death. May the faith that shaped his life and work bring you and your loved ones comfort and hope as you gather to celebrate his life and to remember Rev. Cosh in love. May God be with you. Rev. Cheryl-Ann Stadelbauer-Sampa, Executive Secretary

9. My sympathies to Grant and the whole McCosh family.I remember your dad liked to talk business/stocks, all with a great sense of humor. May the best of memories take you through these trying times.. Cam, Vancouver.