Timothy Otto Bilou

It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to Timothy Otto Bilou, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grand grandfather, brother, and friend. Tim departed this world on December 9th, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and great memories. He was 77 years old.

Tim was born in Wetaskiwin, and grew up in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta. Following graduation from public school, Tim attended Covenant Bible College in Prince Albert, SK and Seattle Pacific College in Washington. He continued his educational journey, attaining an undergraduate degree in education, master’s in education and a master’s in business administration. Throughout his career, Tim taught music, was a band director, a classroom teacher, school administrator and assistant superintendent for Northland School Division. He also developed curriculum and training simulations for the Calgary Police Service. When Tim and Rose moved to Kitimat BC, he was Director of Education for Haisla First Nation. While in Kitimat Tim and Rose bought and operated Channel’s Edge Inn. During his retirement, Tim happily watched the wild birds outside his window, created beautiful soap stone and wood carvings, and frequently guilted his children and grandchildren to come visit him.

Timothy is survived by his devoted wife, Rosemarie Bilou, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and companionship these past 54 years. Rose always said that living with Tim was never boring.

Tim leaves behind a legacy of love through his children, Teresa Evans (Mark), Kris Bilou (Amanda), and Suzy Pruden. He is predeceased by this son Benjamin Bilou and his son-in-law Ryan Pruden. There are so many fond memories of the times spent with his children camping, fishing, snowmobiling, building campfires, quadding, bannock making, and being outdoors. There are many stories of harrowing adventures that Tim’s kids can provide where, after some reflection as adults, realize were not entirely safe or well thought out. One of Tim’s favourite places was living in Fort Vermilion and boating on the Peace River enjoying long summer days on the sandbar. He also greatly enjoyed living close to Rose’s parents and playing pranks on her dad Roy like throwing firecrackers in the fire when Roy wasn’t looking.

Family was the cornerstone of Tim's life, and he found joy in the company of his grandchildren Nate & Lily Evans, Grayson & Paige Bilou, Autumn & Eric Pruden, and great grandchild Rhylen Friesen. His kindness, generosity, and sarcastic sense of humor created a welcoming atmosphere that made everyone feel loved and cherished. Tim’s face would light up whenever his grandchildren came to visit and spend time with him, either watching TV, sitting by a campfire, or helping him cook in the kitchen. Tim also leaves behind his sister Judy Nelson (Jim) and brother Dick Bilou. One of Tim’s favourite things to do was visit Judy and Jim in Norquay where they cooked and found creative projects to do.

Tim was a dreamer, always up for an adventure and taking the road less travelled. He loved animals and had a menagerie of pets throughout his life including dogs, cats, iguanas, tarantulas, snakes, alligators, budgies, doves, cockatiels, and love birds. He was disappointed when the family refused to allow him to have a pet raccoon. Tim had very strong faith and often volunteered in the church to lead and sing.

A private green burial service will be held for Tim’s immediate family. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Western Canadian Ocular Oncology Fund (Link) in Tim's honor.

Rest in peace, Tim. You will be dearly missed and fondly remembered.