Mr. Speaker, on this day when we pay tribute to former parliamentarians who have passed on, I would like to take this opportunity to pay respects to the hon. Bill Knowles, or Tobacco Bill as he was known, a former member of parliament in my riding of Haldimand—Norfolk—Brant.
Bill was a teacher, a farmer and a former captain in World War II. He was a lifelong resident of Lynedoch, Ontario and was elected to parliament in 1968, re-elected in 1972, in 1974 and sat until 1979 when he retired. He attended every recognized function throughout the riding of Haldimand—Norfolk—Brant and was very well known for speaking out on behalf of his constituents, particularly on behalf of farmers in our riding.
Bill was a caring husband and friend to his wife Vera and a father to two sons, William and James. He will be greatly missed by the constituents in Haldimand—Norfolk—Brant.
One thing we can say about Bill Knowles was that he served and loved his constituents and he will be greatly missed.