Bill LeClair was born and raised in Coquitlam, one of the first of many grandchildren in the large Fenton and LeClair families. He was raised to understand the importance of family and friends and to take on a leadership role in the community. Bill and his wife Sharon (Crawford) raised their three daughters in Coquitlam, and all were graduates of Centennial High School. Inspired by his father, Ray LeClair, who was Coquitlam’s first Municipal Manager and an advocate for public service, Bill stepped up to the plate placing himself before the Coquitlam electorate many times. Bill served as a city councillor in Coquitlam from 1983 to 2005. He was very successful in his role as councillor due, in large part, to his love for his hometown, his talent to stimulate forthright discussions, and his ability to bring about change when change was needed. Bill was a businessman, and throughout his many careers, he directed several successful community initiatives. Throughout his life, Bill gave back to the communities he loved, lived, and worked in, in so many ways.

The Bill LeClair Community Fund was initiated by Bill’s family, in October 2017 when Bill tragically died suddenly and unexpectedly. Realizing that Bill’s contributions to the world were cut short, this fund was established to honor Bill’s passion for community and to inspire Coquitlam residents to take on a community project or initiative. This fund has been supported by Bill’s many family members and friends, business associates and acquaintances.