By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Former Pointe-Claire Mayor William Franklin “Bill” McMurchie died January 1 in Toronto at age 93.

McMurchie devoted nearly six decades of public service to the West Island community, serving multiple terms as Mayor between 1998 and 2013, including a crucial period as borough mayor during the Montreal mergers and demergers. He played a key role in securing Pointe-Claire’s successful demerger from Montreal and previously served as City Councillor from 1990 to 1998.

Born in Paynton, Saskatchewan, McMurchie moved to Montreal in 1956, beginning his career with the City of Pointe-Claire as a student employee. This first position marked the start of a lifelong commitment to municipal service that would span nearly six decades.

In his role as Mayor, McMurchie led several transformative initiatives for Pointe-Claire. He prioritized environmental protection, particularly along Lake Saint-Louis, where he worked to preserve shorelines and waterfront areas for public use. His administration established the West Island’s first Ecocentre and implemented regulations on wood-burning fireplace emissions to improve air quality.

Colleagues remember McMurchie as a dedicated public servant who took special interest in preserving local history, including efforts to honour Olive Urquhart, Pointe-Claire’s first female mayor. His approach to governance was marked by careful consideration and genuine commitment to community well-being.

The City of Pointe-Claire has lowered its flags to half-mast in recognition of his service. Following the family’s wishes, McMurchie will be buried in Pointe-Claire this spring, with ceremony details to be announced.

His legacy includes thoughtful development policies, environmental stewardship, and an unwavering dedication to public service that played a significant role in the transformation of Pointe-Claire into the community that it is today. n