elevated 8qm87 June 24, 1944 – May 24, 2025
elevated 8qm87 Visitation
Thursday, May 29, 2025 from 2-4 & 6-8pm
elevated 8qm87 Holy Cross Catholic Funeral Home
211 Langstaff Road East, Thornhill, ON, L3T 3Z6
elevated 8qm87 Funeral Service – Chapel of St. Joseph (within the Funeral Home)
Friday, May 30, 2025 at 10:30am
elevated 8qm87 Reception (within the Funeral Home)
Following the Funeral Service
elevated 8qm87 Obituary
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, Brian / Bill Haynes. He passed away at home, peacefully and surrounded by his family, on Saturday May 24th, 2025 one month before his 81st birthday, and after a 3 year battle with lung cancer.
elevated 8qm87 Brian / Bill will be deeply missed by his loving wife Marilyn (Mare) of 59 years, and his three cherished children, Brett (Deanna), Chris (Marse) and Kim (Florent *Beau*), and multiple foster children. He was the beloved son of Leonard and Donna Haynes of Vineland, and an awesome brother to Betty (Howard), Joan (Barry), and Judy (John). He was an amazing grandfather to Alex, Darien (Katharyn), Emilee, Zachary, Brayden, Chantalyn, Madeleine, and Joseph. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who enjoyed lots of laughs with crazy Uncle Brian.
elevated 8qm87 Brian / Bill had not one but two incredible careers, where he was blessed to work with wonderful colleagues who have gone on to become amazing friends and even family. He started his first career as a police officer with the Toronto Police. After 32 years, he retired from that career and said goodbye to his lifelong work, and we said goodbye to Brian the officer, and expected him to put up his feet and relax and enjoy life. Within a year of retirement, he started working with MLSE as an usher at Maple Leaf gardens, and then a supervisor and coordinator at the ACC/SBA. It is here that he met many friends (players, staff and fans) who very quickly became family, and where he became Bill. He continued that career for another 28 years. He was a very lucky man to have two incredibly successful careers that he excelled at.
elevated 8qm87 He was a devoted man and a sports enthusiast. His love for sports was evident to all who knew him, as he could often be found cheering on his favourite sports teams, or his children’s and grandchildren’s teams. At one time, he was playing on numerous teams, in various leagues, as well as numerous tournaments throughout North America. Over the years he won multiple gold medals in the World Police and Fire Games. He was fortunate enough for many years to play alongside both his sons on the same baseball teams, and then alongside them on the golf course. He dedicated himself to coaching kids teams even before he had his own children, He then went on to umpire baseball where he was a beloved umpire, who the fans would never question. He instilled a passion for sports in his children and grandchildren, and enjoyed coaching their teams or watching them compete. He even encouraged his wife to enjoy the sports…reluctantly she finally did.
elevated 8qm87 But beyond his love for sports, Brian / Bill will be remembered as a kind and loving man who always put his family first. He had an infectious smile and a warm heart that touched the lives of everyone he met. He was a pillar of strength and support for his family, always there to lend a listening ear, offer words of wisdom, or attend various sporting events. His second home was the ball field, the hockey rink and most recently, the golf course. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a deep appreciation for the game.
elevated 8qm87 In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a local youth sports association in your own neighbourhood.
elevated 8qm87 Brian / Bill may have left this world, but his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Rest in peace, Brian / Bill. You will be loved and forever missed and never forgotten.
elevated 8qm87
Wonderful man. Rest in peace Bill. Lots of love to your family.
I will really miss working with Bill, I was fortunate to work with him at ACC/SBA for 22 years. I always enjoyed talking about the Blue Jays with him. Bill’s smile lit up a room.
Thinking of Marilyn and family at this difficult time, my condolences.
I have only had the pleasure of knowing Bill and his family for a few years. In that time we have played many, many rounds of golf and had equally as many laughs.
I already miss you, my friend. Just today, I had no one to play the forward tees with so the boys made me play the Big Boy tees.
You are a very special person and I am honoured to be your friend. Now, go show the guys upstairs how this game should be played.
Our deepest condolences to the entire family. He was a amazing man. He was one of a kind. He will be so missed! We love you Brian…RIP.
My deepest condolences to the entire Haynes family. I worked with Bill the entire time he was with MLSE. He’d always have the time to talk to you. He wanted to see people do better, we were on two different sides. Myself with the union and him with management. He was always straight to the point and by the book. But he would also show his compassion side and give someone a break if they had screwed up.
Bill you will be missed deeply. All those years of you in 110 at the end of the game waiting to send us home at the end of the night. Reminds me of how George Armstrong would launch a paper airplane from the press box each night after a game. Things we got use to seeing for years. Then they’re gone.
My regrets on not being able to attend your services. I will mourn your passing in my own way.
Rest easy my friend you will be missed deeply.
Bill was one of the great ones during my time at MLSE. Always a wink and that smile with a story or a good word.
Rest in peace Bill.
To all family and those that knew and worked with Bill all those years, my sincere condolences.
Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Rest in Peace Bill
I worked at golf courses where Bill was a member for the last few years. Never forgot to say hello and ask how you were.
My memories of Brian go back 60 years when he was introduced to me as the policeman on a horse.
He came to date my baby sitter and cousin Mare whom he later married and built a wonderful life with.
The Haynes household was always alive with kids, be they foster kids, their kids or neighbourhood kids.
Brian was there to lead them all, give them a chance at a better life and show them guidance and love.
Brian did everything by example. He lived the life others talk about. Brian was accomplished, cherished and respected by all who’ve known him.
I count myself fortunate to have had such a person in my life for so many years.
Thanks for lighting the way Brian. You leave behind a wonderful, loving family who will continue your legacy.
Chris and Suzanne Serrie
I worked with Bill for 11 great years at MLSE and although I never told Bill, I had the upmost respect for him. Rest peacefully Sir. It was my honour to have known you.
Condolences to Mare and family.
I was lucky enough to meet Bill 26 years ago when the ACC opened and I became an Usherette. Always smiling and having a good laugh with everyone. Who knew that I would find out very quickly that Bill and my Dad were on the force together and were buddies. Bill and Mare became extended family to everyone at the ACC/SBA. Bill, you were one of a kind and we are all better for knowing you. Rest easy, my friend
Marilyn and family very sorry for the passing of Brian he was a great guy.Ken Wood
Brian was great old time copper,dedicated family man and class act across the board.It was a pleasure and honour to work with Brian at the old 54 Division.My deepest condolences to his family and know that Brian made difference in the world and will be missed.
Bill was a wonderful man who always had a smile on his face and put a smile on those who met him. May he rest in peace.
Marilyn and entire Haynes family
Our deepest condolences for your loss. Brian was a loving husband and family man. He will be missed but never forgotten.
From our first meeting at a Mounted Unit dance until our recent visit he was a great friend and colleague.
The Tac’ s infectious smile and laugh will remain with us always.
In the very short time that I knew Brian, he left an incredible mark on me with his love for his wife, his children and grandchildren. He accomplished so many things in his lifetime. He was a wonderful man who will be truly missed by all who knew him. May you rest in peace Brian.
Billy you will always be remembered.
You were always so approachable and just one of the gang.
May you R.I.P, likely on the 19th hole).
Thanks for the friendship……xx
Hi Marilyn,
As you know, I changed careers early, leaving the MTPF in 1978 to move on to the banking world. Unfortunately, our paths did not cross after I saw a few Blue Team games after my time. I tried very hard to track Tack Hammer down over the last few years, but I’m assuming he wasn’t a social media guy! :). Brian, John B and I were the ‘kid’ line in the 70’s. I miss his smile. My sincere condolences.
Marilyn & Family,
I’m so sorry to hear about Bill’s passing. I enjoyed working with Bill at MLSE until I left in 2017. I always enjoyed talking to him and sharing stories. Bill/Brian worked with one of my good friends, Fred Lloyd, on the mounted unit with TPS, and also with Fred’s dad, Ted. Fred asked me to also pass along his condolences to you all and always spoke of Brian with great reverence. Wishing you all very sincere condolences.
Kim and Family, I know there are no words that can ease your pain. I’m a firm believer that when we lose someone close to us, like a father, they continue to live on through us and give us unbelievable strength. Sending you our deepest condolences and love.
From Mike’s first year at Maple Leafs Gardens to his time at ACC/SBA Bill was always there with advice-guidance for all staff.
On behalf of Mary he was always welcoming as we all entered ACC/SBA but also his home with Marilyn. He always provided guidance and advice to staff in a firm but friendly way.
He was one of the greatest supervisors we had in our careers. We will miss Bill’s big bright smile and chats.
Rest In Peace my friend.
Marilyn i am very sorry to hear of the passing of Bill and my heart felt condolences go out to you, family and all who knew him at this time.❤️ I first met Bill when I became a part of the security team at the ACC back in 2007. You could sense already a lot about his character by the way he carried himself around the building with the air of confidence, the show of leadership when required. I always enjoyed chatting with him when we crossed paths during an event. He was a true gentleman and showed class and respect at all times. He will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. I’m very sorry! Rest in peace Bill. ❤️
I am so sorry for Bill’s passing on behalf of myself and my family. Except our condolences to all the Bill family, RIP Bill , you’ll be missed
Marilyn, Kim and Family,
We were so sorry to hear of of Brian passing away from his illness.
Our sincere condolences to you and the whole family (all of you).
Brian was such a very Special Man! His sense of Family was #1, always ready to help anyone who asked, and his knowledge of sports was next to no one else! He will truly be missed by everyone who knew him.
Brian is on a new journey now, hand-in-hand with his two grandsons Zachary and Joseph showing him the way. 💕
Our thoughts are with you all.
Marilyn, my deepest condolences to you and the family. Bill was a man of few words but always managed a hello or a short conversation. He will be missed and I’m glad to have known him. Rest in peace Bill.
My heart goes out to Mare and family. Billy will be missed by so many but never forgotten.
RIP Bill.
Kim and family I am sorry for your loss. I remember meeting your dad a few times during our high school days. May he rest in peace. He is watching over you guys now