Remembering Bill

A researcher, ally, advocate and friend for Rural Canada

 It is with profound sadness that we share news of Dr. William (Bill) Reimer’s passing, on July 15, 2024.

 Bill, a cherished colleague, mentor, friend and Lifetime Member, was a founding member and stalwart supporter of the Canadian Rural Revitalization Foundation (CRRF). For decades, he continuously invested his time and his talent to support and further the objectives of the foundation. While Bill served on the CRRF Board of Directors in various capacities, including the role of President from 1995-1998, his support for the organization began much earlier. Starting in 1988 with CRRF’s predecessor, the Agricultural and Rural Restructuring Group, Bill’s dedication spanned three decades. Most recently, Bill served as CRRF’s archivist, providing invaluable information and reflections on CRRF’s history through monthly contributions to our newsletter. Bill has been a central figure in rural research for decades, including serving as the lead for the New Rural Economy project which, at the time, was the largest research project ever funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada. He was a genius at grantsmanship, second only to the inspiration he sparked for his many graduate students and fellow researchers. Bill dedicated his life to the study and improvement of rural communities. His research, which spanned decades, shed light on the socio-economic challenges faced by rural Canadians and offered insightful, practical solutions for sustainable development. Bill’s work was always grounded in a deep respect for the voices and experiences of rural residents. Perhaps Bill’s greatest legacy in the world of rural is not only his passion for CRRF, but the loyalty his former students have towards him and CRRF’s mission.

 Bill’s family would like his CRRF colleagues to know that a Celebration of Life is being planned in both Vancouver and Montreal in the coming months.

 As we collectively grieve this incredible loss, we are committed to honouring Bill’s legacy in a meaningful way at a future date.

With deepest sympathies,

CRRF Board of Directors