Willy Storgaard
STORGAARD, Willy Pape – Passed away with his wife by his side on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Hamilton, in his 82nd year. Predeceased by his parents Edith (Pape) and Johannes Storgaard. Willy is survived by his wife Rebecka (Becky) (nee Mummery), his brother Henry (Hanna), his nephew Christian and niece Annik. He also leaves behind numerous in-law relations and his many close friends. Willy lived life large. Born in Horsens, Denmark, at the age of eight he crossed the Atlantic to start a new life with his parents and his brother Henry.
As a new Canadian, Willy had to raise to many challenges at a young age. New language and culture, new friends and activities but more importantly, he was the voice and guide for his parents’ adjustment to life in Canada – he grew up fast and shouldered many responsibilities. He excelled in school, played on the infamous football team, The Blue Tornados at Morrisburg High, and was an active participant in cultural activities.
His artistic talents were discovered and he was accepted to the Ontario College of Art in Toronto where he was the recipient of many awards. As a painter, he produced portraits, abstracts and landscapes in multiple media. Willy went on to share his talents as a teacher, not only in Art but also in History.
Every project Willy took on became a BIG project – from his love of animals, his interest in the outdoors and most of all his passion for sailing. His first trip, crossing the Atlantic Ocean, sparked a strong affiliation with sailing – he eventually moved to Port Dover and enjoyed many years at the helm of his sailboat “Viking Spirit.” Together with his wife and copilot Becky, they spent countless hours on Lake Erie, racing in regattas or just enjoying the “Yacht Club” lifestyle. Willy was an active member of Port Dover Yacht Club for many years and went on to become Commodore in 1990. His fellow members became his extended family.
In his final days, his Danish heritage drew him to Valhalla, the Viking Heaven… Cremation has taken place. SERENITY BURIAL & CREMATION SERVICES INC., 361 Main Street, Port Dover, (226) 290-9093 have been entrusted with the arrangements.
A Celebration of Life Service for Willy will take place on Sunday, October 19, 2025, from 1:00 till 4:00 p.m. at the Port Dover Yacht Club, 62 River Dr., Port Dover. For those wishing to make a memorial donation in memory of Willy they are asked to consider the Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice, P.O. Box 658, Port Dover, Ontario N0A 1N0. Online condolences can be left at www.
serenityburialandcremation.com.
