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May 25, 1947- April 27, 2020
With great sadness, we are announcing the death on April 27, of well-known Alberta musician Bill Eaglesham.
Bill was born in Edmonton and grew up in Red Deer, Alberta. Except for about 10 summers as a Forest Service Fire Lookout in the Rockies, his entire career was as a bass guitarist with such early bands as Backline and Stratisfaction. From 1988 till 1992, he played with James Keelaghan, and from 1993 till he retired a few years ago, he was with Blues singer Donald Ray Johnson. In 2013, Bill was awarded Bass Player Of The Year by the CBMA at the Calgary Bluesfest. Once, Bill was asked whether he regretted spending his life as a musician. He said "I couldn't imagine doing anything else. Once in a very long while, in all the hours of playing, I get a phrase exactly right and that's why I do it."
James Keelaghan posted on Facebook: "He was an amazing musician-he was witty, quick to laugh, and had a presence all his own."
Bill is survived by his sister, Doris Gorrell, of Powell River, BC, and by 13 nieces and nephews throughout Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and the Yukon, and by longtime partner Jill McCarthy (Short). He was predeceased by his Father John Eaglesham, his Mother Norma Eaglesham (Baker), and his sisters, Linnie Chamberlin and Jeanne Tulp.
Bill and Jill built a home in the foothills of the Rockies near Caroline, and Bill built a much-loved cabin-studio where he could enjoy the peace and quiet and his fascination of nature.
Bill's family would like to express our sincere thanks to all the friends in Sundre who made it possible for Bill to live independently to the end.
Bill: you were kind and gentle, a great friend, and true to your music. You lived your life well. You got it all just about exactly right.
We miss you so much.
A time of Remembrance for Bill's family and friends will be held at a later date.
Those who so desire may send donations to:
Bill's Charity of choice,
Population Connection (an organization that supports zero population growth). 2120 L Street NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC 20037, United States, or;
Sundre Hospital and Care Centre, 709, 1st Street NE, Sundre, Alberta, T0M1X0
