The Crees lost, as Chief Billy Diamond put it, a fellow human being. Bill Grodinsky died September 23 in a Chisasibi hotel room while he was in town on business.
The service and funeral were held Sunday, September 27. Billy Diamond delivered Bill’s eulogy during the service at Paperman and Son’s funeral home in Montreal, followed by his two eldest sons.
The synagogue was packed with family and friends, including those who came in on the three charters from the Cree territory. After the service, the congregation made its way to Beaconsfield for the burial. Afterwards there was a gathering at the family’s home for some food which is traditionally served during the mourning period.
Bill is survived by his wife, Maureen, and three sons. He was 48.
