Obituary of William Desrochers

With broken hearts, we announce the passing of Willie, who left us peacefully on Monday, July 21, 2025 at the Sault Area Hospital, with his loving family by his side. Born on November 22, 1961, Willie was in his 64^th year. Born and raised in Massey, Ontario, Willie built a life and family in Hawk Junction, Ontario.

Beloved husband of Debbie Desrochers. Willie was the devoted and proud father of Yvon (Candice), David (Lucy), Willie (Becca), Lucas (Ashley), Paul, and Jesse. Much-loved father to his daughters Brandie (Shaun) and Leah Ann (Shane).

Willie’s greatest joy in life was being “Papa” to his eighteen cherished grandchildren: Brady, Bentley, Clint, Kayleigh, Justin, Abby, Chase, Parker, Izzy, Carly, Max, Jack, Lucas, London, Hudson, Kensington, Daphne, and Sidney. Each of them held a special place in his heart, and his love for them was boundless.

He was the treasured son of the late Wilford Desrochers and Lillian John, and a dear brother to Susy (Gerard), Lilly (Gille), Linda, Danny (Karla), and Marilyn (Rick). Predeceased by his siblings Ronnie, Jemmy, and Bobby – lovingly remembered as “Uncle Buck.”

Willie was a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews, and a special "uncle-dad" to Anita, with whom he shared a deep and lasting bond.

Willie lived life with grit, humour, and a heart full of love. He was a hard-working man who built a life from the ground up, working in mining and scrap metal. His hands told the story of a lifetime of labour, but it was his smile and his laugh that people remembered most. He had a sharp wit, a deep love for his family, and a passion for classic cars and road trips that led to countless adventures.

No matter where he was, Willie made people feel welcome, loved, and often, like they were part of one big joke he hadn’t finished telling. His humour remained sharp even through the hardest days, a testament to the strength of his spirit.

Friends and family are invited to visit at Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758) on Thursday, July 24, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the Memorial Service in the Chapel at 11:30 a.m. A reception will follow, where stories and laughter will be shared in honour of a man who gave so much of both. A private family graveside service will take place in Massey, Ontario.

In memory of Willie, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation—a cause close to the family’s heart.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Sault Area Hospital ICUand Lady Dunn Health Centre for all of their care and support.