NUSBAUM, William "Bill" Patrick

June 14th, 1945 - April 29th, 2024

It is with profound sadness that the family of William (“Bill”) Patrick Nusbaum shares the news of his sudden passing. Bill succumbed to cancer on April 29, 2024, at Avow Hospice in Naples, Florida. His loved ones are left in disbelief by this loss less than three weeks after his initial diagnosis. Family was always the most important part of his life; Bill shared that seeing his loving family gather by his side during his final days brought him great comfort.

Bill is survived by his wife Judith (Judi) Nusbaum (nee Skinner) of 55 years, who will forever cherish the life they shared together. Bill also has four children and eight grandchildren who will miss him dearly: Christina King – children Kane and William; Elizabeth (Betsy) and Trevor (deceased) Demeris – children Brandon, Brianna, and Aidan; Deborah Nelson (partner Scott Sheppard) – children Devin, Ryan and Sophie and Stephen Nusbaum and his wife Lidia Pawlikowski.


Born on June 14, 1945, Bill grew up on a rural Ohio farm with his seven siblings. Their tight-knit family promoted hard work, fostered kindness, and instilled a sense of responsibility; shaping the values that would guide his life. He went on to secure a degree in Industrial Engineering and a Masters of Business Administration from Purdue University. After graduating, he married his college sweetheart, Judi.

He later enlisted in the US Army and served in Vietnam for fifteen months, receiving a Bronze Star Medal. After returning from his service, Bill joined the BorgWarner Corporation and became a father to his first two daughters. His career then took him and his family to Ireland. It was during this eight-year period that his two youngest children were born, and many lifelong friendships were founded.

Bill’s next assignment took the family to Canada where they settled in Burlington, Ontario. With a small group of his colleagues, who would later become among his best friends, Bill took the opportunity to purchase Long Manufacturing Ltd, a struggling automotive parts division of BorgWarner. After much hard work and many years of growth, the business was sold allowing Bill to retire at the age of 52. He remained busy during retirement serving on a variety of boards, including multiple non-profit organizations. A particularly meaningful role for Bill was leading the team that established the first Habitat for Humanity and ReStore in the region.

Early retirement also allowed Bill to fully indulge in his lifelong passion for golf. He played three rounds every week, at the Hamilton Golf and Country Club in Ontario during the summer and at the Club Pelican Bay in Florida during the winter. While not one to boast, Bill would happily share that he had shot a hole-in-one three times! Golf was beyond a hobby for Bill; it provided him an outlet to both challenge himself and develop many meaningful friendships.

Bill will always be remembered as an authentic, kind, and generous man. He was a loving husband, cherished father, adored ‘papa’, supportive brother, and steadfast friend. His home was a refuge for all, in which doors were never locked and knocks were never necessary. His presence left an enduring mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing him.


The family invites all to attend a funeral mass at 11am on May 17th at St. Thomas the Apostle Church (715 Centre Road) in Waterdown, Ontario. A private interment will follow for immediate family.

A memorial celebration, including drinks and appetizers, will be held later that day at Hamilton Golf and Country Club (232 Golf Links Road) in Ancaster, Ontario from 6-9pm, with family remarks at 8pm. All are welcome to stop by or stay for the duration.

If desired, memorial contributions can be made to the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation.


Princess Margaret Foundation

Arrangements entrusted to Smith's Funeral Home