Ivits, William (Willy) John
IVITS, William (Willy) John, devoted father and grandfather, dependable brother and friend, dedicated farmer and firefighter, died of cancer on Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2022. He was 66 years old. Willy was born on Feb. 26, 1956 to Martin and Ann Ivits of New Lowell, Ontario. He was the eldest son of nine children. As a brother, he was heartfelt, wise, considerate, and good humoured. He helped out on the family farm, eventually acquiring half of the property to build a farm of his own. In 1979, Willy married Frances Jane Kidd and together they raised two children, Steven and Shantel. His children valued his kind heart, sensible advice, quiet strength, and gentle
sense of humour. Willy was a hardworking farmer for over 40 years. He was recognized as Outstanding Pork Producer of the Year by the Ontario Pork Producers Association and his hogs won countless prizes at the Stayner Community Fair. After retiring from the farm, he continued to work as a consultant and mentor to younger farmers across Simcoe and adjacent counties. Willy left anindelible mark on Clearview Township. As a volunteer firefighter for 25 years, he saved lives and homes across the township. His crew recognized him with a bronze wooden shoe dubbed “The Flying Dutchman Award” for always being the first one to the firehall in an emergency. He rose the ranks to Captain and eventually served as Chief. For 10 years, he volunteered with the Sunnidale Township Parks and Recreation Committee and he helped organize many a Winterama (sometimes appearing as Winterama Willie himself). Alongside Frances Jane Kidd, he played a pivotal role in revitalizing the New Lowell Campground and Conservation Park. Willy is survived by his two children, Steven (Erin) and Shantel Ivits, his grandchildren Ruby and Beckett Ivits, his past wife and best friend Frances Jane (Ann) Kidd, his siblings Joanne (Kevin) George, Mariette (Norm) Frechette, Jeannette (Rob) Weselake, Henry Ivits, Mary (Daniel) Mapel, Gerry (Jamilla) Ivits, Louise (Rob) Noordegraaf, Diane Crittenden (Ron), and his many much- loved nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents, Martin and Ann Ivits, and loving companion, Christina “Chris” Van Der Heijden. His family wishes to thank his supportive friends, compassionate team of caregivers, and Campbell House Palliative Residence. Visitation was held on Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2022 at the Carruthers & Davidson Funeral Home, 7313 Highway 26, Stayner. Funeral Mass was held on Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022 at 11 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 215 Pine Street, Stayner. Entombment St. Patrick’s cemetery. The ceremony was live streamed and the link will be available in the Book of Memories. For further information and to sign Willy’s Book of memories, please visit www.carruthersdavidson.com.
