Vale 1731080 WILLIAM JOSEPH (BILL) WINTERFORD, MM, C COY 6 RAR, 1966

Sadly, Geoff Jones has informed us of that Bill Winterford has passed away after a long illness:

The end of a gallant little fighter.

Bill Winterford who was awarded the Military Medal for his actions on Operation Hobart on 25 July 1966, passed away from illness at Clare Hospital at 9.20 am today (24 August 2022). He was comfortable and at peace in his final days and hours.

John ‘Strez’ Wilson visited Bill in hospital yesterday and he will remain in Clare to deliver a eulogy for Bill at his funeral.

I am particularly saddened as my mind returns to the fateful day of Bill’s wounding.  He fought the VC with courage, and he fought to stay alive, then, and now.  He was a fighter to the end.

Billy Winterford’s funeral is confirmed as a cremation service at Mid North Funeral Chapel, 54 Main North Road, Clare, South Australia, on Thursday 1st September 2022 commencing at 1.30 pm.   Billy’s ashes will be placed in the Wall of Remembrance at Clare Cemetery.

The Funeral Director is seeking contact details of Billy’s former wives and four children.  If you can assist, please advise the Funeral Director on telephone number (08) 8842 3368.

On behalf of myself and Billy’s C Company brothers we thank his friends, Trevor Wandel, and Bev, for keeping us informed during Billy’s illness and of his subsequent passing.  Trevor and Bev were Billy’s rock, right to the end.

LEST WE FORGET

Fred Fairhead will attend the funeral and present the 6 RAR Association Sash on behalf of the Association.

Condolences to those who served with Bill and to his friends, especially those who’ve helped to look after him in recent times.

Please join with us in offering our deepest sympathy to those who will mourn the passing of a loved one.  Another 6 RAR family member, taken too soon.

LEST WE FORGET

Allan Whelan, Secretary