We Remember
ABETKOFF, William “Bill”
January 18, 1947 — September 1, 2026
It is with great love and sadness that we announce the loss of William “Bill” Abetkoff, who passed away on September 1, 2026, at the age of 79.
Bill is lovingly survived by his partner of 47 years, Aleta Ferguson; children Shelley (Ian) Greatbanks, Jason Abetkoff, and Melanie (Armin) Niazi; step-children Tracy (David) Robertson, Holly (Corry) Ferguson, and Chad Ferguson; grandchildren Tessa (Vanessa), Amanda, Megan, Nasiem, Jordan (Ashlee), Jacob (Alycia), Samuel (Ayesha), Zac (Kenzie), Alex, and Eric; many loving great-grandchildren; brother-in-law James “Jim” Ferguson; niece Nicole Ferguson; and grandnieces Catherine, Elizabeth, Sophie, and Emily.
He now goes to join those who passed before him, including his parents Pearl and William Abetkoff; brother Paul Obetkoff; sister-in-law Hazel Obetkoff; and stepson Michael Ferguson.
Bill was born on January 18, 1947, in Saskatchewan, and remained a proud Saskatchewan boy throughout his life. A true farm boy, he grew up riding his horse to school and developed an early love for the outdoors, nature, and the simple pleasures in life. He spent many of his younger years in Kelowna, while summers were happily spent at Madge Lake in Saskatchewan.
As a young man, Bill worked for a time as a train brakeman, sparking a lifelong love of trains. Years later, that interest could still be seen in the miniature trains, buildings, and models he so enjoyed building. When his father passed away while Bill was in his late twenties, he went to be with his mom, a reflection of the devotion to family that was always such an important part of his life. At 32, Bill met his partner, Aleta, and thus commenced their shared lifetime, always focused firstly on their cherished children and, later, the many grandchildren they were overjoyed to welcome. In 1989, they made their home in Kelowna.
Bill was a force of nature—endlessly optimistic, full of joy, and full of life. He was happy, almost always smiling, and had an enthusiasm that was hard to miss. He loved fishing, photography, mushroom hunting, building models, and collecting all sorts of things. He loved being out in nature, but he also appreciated a really good meal—especially prime ribs—and was known to make a mean borscht. Animals held a special place in his heart as well, and he had many beloved pets throughout his life, most recently his dog, Echo.
Above all, Bill loved deeply. He was patient and understanding, forgave easily, and was immensely proud of his family. He and his grandson Zac shared an especially close and treasured bond, one that meant so much to them both.
Bill brought warmth, happiness, and an unmistakable love for life wherever he went. His smile, his optimism, his many passions, and the love he gave so freely will be remembered by those who knew him.
He will be so deeply missed by his family, his friends, and all whose lives he touched
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