Oldest member of Royal Hamilton Light Infantry turns 100

The oldest member of the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry marked his 100th birthday today.

The Honourable Justice William Parker celebrated in Burlington surrounded by his family and the men he served with.

Called “Bill” by his friends, Parker is proof you can accomplish a lot in 100 years.

The dozens in attendance Sunday say his accomplishments are one of a kind.

Upon graduating from Osgoode Law School, he struggled to get hired. When he did find a job he ended up putting his law career on hold and joined the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry after the raid on Dieppe.

RHLI Historian John Tinsley is familiar with Parker’s experience.

“He fought all the way through France and through Belgium and into Holland for the liberation of Holland.”

He returned home and at age 46 and became the youngest lawyer to ever be appointed a Justice of the Supreme Court of Ontario and presided over notable cases like the Hamilton Harbour Commission.

His service to his province and country earned him birthday wishes from all levels of government, including the Queen.

But to those he holds most dearly, he’s always been just a regular guy who was blessed 3 children and 5 grandchildren.

“I’ve been lucky” says Parker.