We are deeply saddened to hear that William “Connell” McBurnie who served in the Bermuda Police from September 1961 – September 1965. Has passed away peacefully at his home in Staffordville, Ontario.
Connell had been in touch with me earlier this year on Skype following publication of the article on Reflections of the BELCO riot of February 2nd 1965 (CLICK HERE to view the article) and he kindly provided his recollections of the events of that day.
While discussing the BELCO riot Connell had mentioned that he had recently been diagnosed with a liver related cancer and was about to undergo major surgery which appeared to have been successful.
Unfortunately, we subsequently heard from Connell that his cancer had returned and was inoperable and he had decided not to undergo any further chemo or radiation treatment. He returned home to be under the care of his wife Janice and his daughter Margo.
Margo kept us informed of his condition, and has just advised that her Dad passed away peacefully on Monday afternoon 4th October. Margo also advised that he handled the final weeks and days with great class and dignity. She will advise us of the details of his funeral which is planned to be live streamed overseas.
Connell and I had been discussing him writing his memoirs for our “Then and Now” column but sadly he was not well enough to tackle doing so. However, Margo plans to write down her father’s stories and let us have them for our Hall of Fame.
While serving in Bermuda, Connell was an outstanding sportsman both as Captain of our first hockey team and also as an outstanding sailor.
We extend our sincere condolences to his wife Janice, his daughter Margo and their family and friends.