William (Bill) Borlase

William (Bill) Irvine Borlase, age 89, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Jan. 10, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, leadership, athletic excellence, a deep community involvement and a strong commitment to family and friends.

Bill was born on August 3, 1936, in Fort Frances, Ontario, where he spent the first 25 years of his life. From an early age, Bill demonstrated exceptional athletic ability, particularly in hockey and fastball. In 1955, he attended the Detroit Red Wings training camp, skating alongside the legendary Gordie Howe. He later played on the 1958 Fort Frances senior A hockey Allan Cup championship team, an achievement that earned him induction into the Fort Frances Sports Hall of Fame.

Bill received a full hockey scholarship to the University of North Dakota, where he played forthe UND Fighting Sioux from 1962 to 1965. During this time, the team captured the NCAA championship in 1963. Bill graduated with a bachelor of education, beginning a lifelong commitment to teaching and mentorship. While attending University, Bill and Anita welcomed their two sons, Guy in 1963 and Craig in 1965.

On August 27, 1962, Bill married Anita Clarkson, the love of his life and steadfast partner. In 1969, Bill and Anita moved to Pine Falls, Manitoba, where Bill began his 30 year teaching career. He became principal at the Pine Falls School in 1976 and held that role until hisretirement in 1998. Known in the school as Mr B, his impact as an educator and administrator is remembered fondly by colleagues, students, and families alike.

Athletics remained a constant passion throughout Bill’s life. He was a member of the Pine Falls Canadians fastball team helping them win the 1970 provincial fastball championships. The team was later inducted into the Manitoba Softball Hall of Fame. Bill also played for the Pine Falls Paper Kings and had a reputation for incurring the odd stick infraction. In Pine Falls, Bill picked up the game of golf where he found great enjoyment on the course, where his competitive spirit and love of sport continued.

Bill gave generously to the Pine Falls community. He coached hockey and softball, served as a hockey referee, volunteered as a firefighter, sat on the first town council, and contributed on the Pine Falls Golf Club board of directors for over 20 years and the Pine Falls District Health Foundation. He was also one of the founding members of the Pine Falls Ol Kings and created the first men’s night at the Pine Falls Golf Club. Known for his quick wit, warm smile, and storytelling, Bill’s sense of humour brought laughter and comradery wherever he went.

Bill was predeceased by his beloved wife Anita, his parents Josephine and Bud Borlase, and his sister Shirley Nault.

He will be lovingly missed by his sons Guy (Bonnie) and Craig (Gloria); his grandchildren Ben (Jane), Hadyn (Corisa), Sydney, Quinn (Brittany), and Sarah (Preston); his sister Joanne (Dave) Marshall; as well as his nieces, nephews, and many friends.

The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to Dr. Moralis and a special thank you to the nurses and health care aids at Sunnywood Manor, whose care and companionship Bill truly enjoyed.

As per Bill’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at the Pine Falls Golf Club on May 30, 2026, (time to be determined) where family and friends are invited to gather, share stories, and remember a life well lived.

www.soberingfuneralchapel.com