05/01/2026
8 Bells: Fanshawe Yacht Club has learned that Spike Boston has sailed over the Horizon. Many of our members knew Spike and had their sails made by he and his crew in Sarnia. We send our deepest condolences to his family and those who treasured his friendship. Fair Winds Spike!
Below is the notice about Spike's passing from the Doyle Boston Sailmakers page
"It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our leader, father, grandfather and brother, Spike Boston. He was the proud owner of Doyle Boston Sails in Point Edward since 1968 and a respected figure in the sailing community. He was proud of his nearly 40 year relationship with Doyle Sails, where his family loft is the oldest loft within the worldwide sailmaking group other than Robbie Doyle’s personal loft.
Spike, age 80, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2026, at St. Joseph’s Hospice in Sarnia. A skilled sailmaker and lifelong sailor, Spike dedicated much of his life to the craft of sailmaking and to the water he loved so much. His hands built more than sails—they built friendships and a reputation for quality, determination, and pride in his work. Sailing was not just something he did; it was part of who he was. As Commodore of Wednesday night racing, Spike found great joy in the race shack and took pride in seeing each race through to the finish week after week. He was also a dedicated mentor to many young people—not just in sailing, but in life. The lessons he shared reached far beyond the water, helping shape individuals who have gone on to become professionals, leaders, and contributors in their own fields.
Spike was known for being stubborn at times, but also incredibly generous, always willing to lend a hand or share his knowledge with others. Above all, he loved his family deeply and was a proud grandfather who cherished time spent with his grandchildren. His favorite saying, “Keep Smiling,” reflected the attitude he carried through life and the message he leaves behind to those who loved him."
From the S2 7.9 Class on Facebook:
"Yesterday our S2 7.9 community lost a truly special soul, Spike Boston. To many of us, Spike wasn’t just a fellow sailor; he was the heartbeat of our class - a kind of “founding father” who nurtured this group with a warm generous spirit. For over 40 years, Spike and his family have been our biggest champions, opening their hearts to host regattas, lead impromptu dockside trim and race clinics, and always offering a friendly tip to help a sailor find a little more speed. The water won’t feel quite the same without him, and he’ll be sorely missed.
We offer our heartfelt condolences to Spike’s family, and hope they know we will always treasure the impact he had on our sailing community."
A Celebration of Life for Spike Boston will be tomorrow - Saturday, May 2 at the Sarnia Yacht Club from 1:00 - 6:00pm
Here is a Link to his obituary: https://www.mccormackfuneralhomesarnia.com/obituarylist-1/boston%2C-william-%22spike%22mccormackfuneralhome
*Photos from the Doyle Boston Sailmakers and S2 7.9 class FB pages
