Remembering Bill Ansell: Former Regina Pats Captain Passes Away
Remembering Bill Ansell: Former Regina Pats Captain Passes Away
The Regina Pats Hockey Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Bill Ansell, a beloved former captain who left an indelible mark on the team and its fans. Ansell died at age 63 on Monday, one day after moving into palliative care due to pancreatic cancer.
Ansell played for the Pats from 1978-1981, recording 182 points (69G-115A) in 152 career games. The Swift Current, Sask. product helped the Pats win the 1979-80 Western Hockey League Championship, picking up 20 points (10G-10A) in 17 playoff games after totaling 62 points (27G-35A) in 66 regular-season games. Ansell then captained the Pats during the 1980-81 season, adding a career-high 102 points (32G-70A) in 65 games, as well as 12 points (5G-7A) in 11 playoff games. Unfortunately, the Pats lost in the East Division semi-final to the Calgary Wranglers after a 49-21-2-0 season.
Ansell was part of one of the best Pats teams assembled in 1979-80, managed by Bob Strumm and coached by Bryan Murray. The Pats were the top club in the East Division during the season, earning a record of 47-24-1-0. In the league finals, the Pats faced the Victoria Cougars, defeating them in five games to win the title and earn a berth in the 1980 Memorial Cup.
He played alongside Pats greats such as Doug Wickenheiser, Ron Flockhart, Darren Veitch, Brian Varga, Mike Blaisdell, Jock Callander, Dave Michayluk, and many more.
After his Pats career, Ansell played for the University of Alberta Golden Bears from 1982-1987. Ansell spent 33 years in the Royal Canadian Navy, serving on the HMCS Regina, before recently retiring as a lieutenant-commander in Sidney, B.C.
“It is with deep sadness that we mourn the passing of Bill Ansell, a cherished leader and longtime captain of the Regina Pats. Bill embodied dedication, passion, and integrity both on and off the ice. His commitment to the team and the community left an indelible mark on our organization and all who had the privilege to know him. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and everyone touched by his remarkable legacy.” — Gordon Pritchard, CEO, Regina Pats
Bill Ansell was predeceased by his mother, Maxine, and his father, Ron. Earlier this year, Bill’s wife, Leslie, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. He is survived by their three children, three grandchildren, and his siblings Max, Pat, and Dawn, along with their families.
