William J. (Uncle Bill) Hassler, passed away quietly on Wednesday, February 13, 2008 at Centennial Lodge, Broadview, Sask. at the age of 91 years. The funeral mass was concelebrated in St. Pius R.C. Church, Windthorst, Sask. on Monday, February 18, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. by Rev. Joseph Strohhofer, Rev. Albert Schmitz and Rev. Ed Hengen. Interment in St. Pius Parish Cemetery. Prayers were held in St. Pius R.C. Church, Windthorst Sunday evening at 7:00. The casket bearers were: Gordon Hassler, Rod Hassler, Tom Link, Bill Hassler, Bob Hassler and Terry Hengen.
Bill was born on the homestead 3 miles west of Windthorst and spent his entire life in the community. He truly cared for its residents, his family and the land he farmed in harmony with brothers Leo and Peter’s properties. The people in the Catholic Church, the Café and Norm’s Place were his extended family.
He earned everyone’s respect and the name of “Uncle Bill” early in life - the people in the area knew who you meant because those older than him thought of him as “Uncle Bill”.
If Uncle Bill became distracted, it was usually because a cat or dog just showed up - and especially if a child could be held, teased, impressed with tall stores, or sang to. How many times did he sing “Bimbo” or “How much is that doggie in the window”?
A German proverb states “to remain young while growing old is a blessing” - clearly there was a piece of him that remained a child and it was evident by many of the things that amused him.
Local socials, dances and parties usually included Uncle Bill. Later in the evening he was sure to sing the “Blue Skirt Waltz” or “Good Night Irene” (He did not sing well, but that didn’t matter.)
He was a simple man with a big heart, generous and helpful. Sometimes it took him a morning to find his one ton truck or a machine because he forgot who he lent it to last.
Uncle Bill had a good life and good times but very few are documented. His many trips: North Fishing, touring Southern States, sea cruises, visiting foreign countries and Las Vegas jaunts now live in the minds of those that went along.
A bachelor by trade, he had a knack for showing up just before or lingering until the next meal. No one thought him an inconvenience as he was always a gentleman and good company.
He celebrated life and did not wish to be mourned. There are many people in the family and community that he quietly helped out over the years.
His last pet project was years spent enhancing and enlarging the St. Pius Catholic Cemetery.
Bill was predeceased by his parents Peter and Anna; sister Elizabeth Schmitz; brothers Leo, Peter and Edward in infancy. He is survived by his sisters Mary Link and Cecilia Schmitz and many nieces, nephews and close friends.
