Dr. William “Bill” Thompson Howson, Ph.D.
July 9, 2025
Surrounded by family, close friends and in the arms of his loving wife, Bill passed away on July 9, 2025. Survived by wife Bette Howson (née Davis). Bette and Bill were married in August of 1964. He is also survived by his son James “Jim” Howson (Sheryl), son-in-law Kevin Cornies and grandchildren Meaghan and Cameron Howson and Mackenzie (Remy) and Matthew Robinson, daughter-in-law Shannon Honsberger, and son-in-law Tom Robinson. Bill is also survived by nephews Grant Allan (Joanne), Barry Allan (Jill Black), Chaka Blackman and Steven Davis, nieces Jennifer and Denise Davis, sisters-in-law Judith Davis and Jacqueline Davis, Jean Davis, and numerous grandnephews and great-nieces. Bill was predeceased by his parents Mable and Robert Howson, his sister Mildred and brother-in-law Dean Allan, daughter Susan “Sue” Cornies (2019), sister-in-law Yvonne (2019) and brother-in-law James “Steve” Davis (2020).
Bill retired as Manager of the Transplant Lab at LHS, University Hospital, London in 2006 and, with Bette (and children when they were at home), travelled the world at every opportunity. He was also an avid reader.
We are deeply grateful for the comfort and dignity the members of the Palliative Comfort Team provided during Bill’s final days. Their professionalism and genuine care for Bill will always be remembered. In particular, we would like to acknowledge Dr. Bakir, Dr. Emily Jones, Dr. Berry, Dr. Beswick, Dr. Chevy and Sabrina Chaves.
In keeping with Bill’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial reception will be held at Westview Funeral Home, 709 Wonderland Road North, London on Saturday, July 19, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. A private inurnment will be held at Woodland Cemetery and Crematorium, London. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Bill are asked to consider a charity of your choice.
Leave a tribute for Dr. William “Bill” Thompson Howson, Ph.D.
Leave a tribute
We would like to extend our deepest condolences to Betty and her family at this difficult time. Please know you are in our thoughts.
My deepest sympathies to Bette, Meaghan, Cameron and the rest of the family. His love for all of you was very evident. Thinking of you.
Betty, we were very sad to hear of Bill's passing. Our sincere condolences go out to you and your family. Bill was a good and respected neighbor .
Sincere sympathy to Bette and family. May fond memories of Bill sustain you.
We first met Bette and Bill in our town-house parking lot shortly after their move from Alberta to London, and became close friends, almost 53 years ago. Shortly after my wife, Flora, passed away a decade ago, I was basically 'adopted' by the Howsons; and, ever since, have enjoyed countless Sunday evening dinners with members of the Howson family. Bill and Bette's gracious hospitality also included anniversary and birthday parties with their many friends, neighbours, and colleagues. In addition to enjoying Bette's varied and famously elaborate dinners, including her casual summer BBQs ... I really looked forward to conversations (even great debates!) with dear Bill who knew so much about almost every major battle of WW II, Bill was also knowledgable about topics ranging from current events & world news to politics, the economy, and environment. Of course, he led our conversations about medicine and many of the basic sciences, with his quiet confidence. A bit of "inside-baseball", here ... but, in one of my earlier debates with Bill, I would soon learn the meaning of a "factoid"!! When not travelling the globe with Bette and their family, Bill enjoyed reading scientific journals, and spending spare time on his many inventions - drawing / building a variety of prototypes, for his formal Patent applications.. Always knew Bill was incredibly versatile; but was really impressed when I heard he also regularly changed the motor oil, and did all routine maintenance, on the family car. I loved every moment spent with Bill; and, along with Bette and the Howson family, will treasure these precious Memories, for a lifetime.
Our thoughts and love are with you, Bette. Such a gentle soul ... while he will be missed, he will also remembered with much love.
My sincere sympathies to Bette and all of Bill’s family….he was a real gentleman and it was a pleasure to work for him, and with him, during my 15 years in the Transplant Lab. He was always there to encourage and bring out the best in us all. He led a team that was busy, diverse and research focused during a very exciting time in transplantation. I will always remember those years and the impact he had on me, my colleagues and multi-organ transplant research.
Sending our deepest sympathy Bette to you and family in the passing of Bill... Many great memories.......
I am very sorry for your loss, Bette. Bill was a fine gentleman. Graham
Deepest sympathy to the family for the loss of a beloved husband, father, grandfather & friend RIP Bill Nieces Jennifer & Denise Davis & mom Ingrid Gauer-Davis
Services for Dr. William “Bill” Thompson Howson, Ph.D.
Memorial Reception will be held at:
Westview Funeral Home & Cremation Centre
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario
July 19, 2025 9:00 am
Additional Service information
A private inurnment will be held at Woodland Cemetery, London.
Jim Sheryl and family So sorry to hear of your father's passing
~ Mike and Margaret Boulton