William and Alfred J. Billes Founders of Canadian Tire
On my walk through Mt. Pleasant and York Cemeteries—partly for business, partly for pleasure—I reunited two brothers who collectively changed the automotive and retail landscape in Canada: J. William and Alfred J. Billes, co-founders of Canadian Tire Corporation.
It all began when William saw the future of every Canadian having a car in their driveway and wanted to enter the business of servicing them. In 1922, “the boys” pooled their savings and purchased Hamilton Tire & Garage in Riverdale, Toronto, for $1,800. To put that in perspective, the average Canadian annual income in 1920 was about $3,000, and a new home could be bought for under $4,000.
Their focus was on selling tires in an era when blowouts were common—something that still resonates today. Their first store opened at 639 Yonge and Gould Streets, with J.W., the elder brother, serving as President and A.J. as Vice President. In 1958, they launched their first gas bar at the corner of Yonge and Church, which still operates today alongside the massive flagship store beside it.
Sadly, William Billes died unexpectedly on November 16, 1956. Generously, he bequeathed his shares in Canadian Tire—worth around six million dollars at the time—to twenty-three different charitable organizations. He was only 59 and is buried at York Cemetery.
His brother A.J. went on for decades to tirelessly build the family business, which recently celebrated its 100th anniversary. “The boys” would no doubt be proud to see their company grow to 1,700 corporate and dealer stores, ranging from the largest in Ottawa to the smallest in Nipigon, Ontario.
A.J. Billes died in Toronto on April 3, 1995, at the age of 92. He rests in midtown Toronto’s Mt. Pleasant Cemetery.
1897-1956 (William)
1903-1995 (Alfred)
William Billes, York Cemetery, Toronto
Alfred Jackson (AJ) Billes grave. Co-founder of Canadian Tire on his grave marker.
