Bill Hoy: A Lifetime on Target!
It was in October 2019 that I met Bill Hoy. The occasion was the monthly meeting of the Canadian Aviation Historical Society, Ottawa chapter, held at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum. I was the speaker, and my topic was Ferry Command.
Imagine my pleasure and astonishment when I was told that a former Ferry Command member was in the audience. It was a rare privilege to meet Bill some seven decades after Ferry Command had folded its wings.
As we chatted afterwards over coffee, Bill gave a quick summary of all the work he had done over the years. Impressed, I said I would like to know more. Modestly, but quick on the uptake, he replied, “Well, you can get a copy of my book right here in the museum bookstore.”
“Stars in My Eye” has had a place of honour on my bookshelf ever since.
Diana Trafford, Luskville QC
15 April 2024
Sheryl McKendry Posted Apr 19, 2024 at 4:56 PM
Hi Diana. Thank you so much for your kind words about my dad. My dad often talked about how much he enjoyed and learned from his time with Ferry Command during the war. It certainly comes through in his book. I’m glad that you enjoyed reading his book and that you still treasure it. It was a joy for me to help him write it and to pull together all the photos that grace its pages. Kindest regards, Sheryl and Family.
So sorry to hear of Bill's passing but what a wonderful life he lived. I became acquainted with Bill through golf at Mountain Creek GC. For the six years that I coordinated the Seniors Golf group at the course, Bill was a mainstay of the group and to celebrate his 90th birthday, I had Terry Marcotte from CTV Ottawa do a feature on Bill on the "Never too Old" segment of his sportscast. True to form, Bill sank two long putts during the filming. He was a wonderful man and a pleasure to know. My sincerest sympathies to his family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.