William Holdom, former Nanaimo councilor and professor, dies at 80

Dr. William “Bill” Holdom died on July 20, 2026, at his home in Qualicum Beach, British Columbia, at age 80. Born in Burnaby, he served eight years on the Nanaimo School Board and 22 years on the Nanaimo City Council and Regional District of Nanaimo. He was an English professor at Vancouver Island University from 1970 to 2001 and later co‑taught courses for the Indigenous/Xwulmuxw Studies Department.

Holdom was known for his advocacy on social‑justice issues, including the development of parks, bike paths, affordable housing, water security and truth‑and‑reconciliation initiatives. He is survived by his wife, Dr. Laura Cranmer, and their family.