It is with great sadness that his family announces his passing at the age of 93 at the Sault Area Hospital on Friday, January 16, 2015. Predeceased by his beloved wife Audrey, parents Jessie and Warren, and brothers Albert and Bruce. George leaves behind six children who mourn his passing: Pat Fera, Judi (Bill Parr), Bonnie (Ben Pino), Dona (Andy Hepburn), George (Jocelyn) and Shane (Paula). He is survived by 16 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren. Over the past two years he particularly delighted in his role as “Great Poppa” to Cohen and Ainslee. George is also survived by his brother Donald of Iroquois Falls and by many nieces and nephews and their families.
The family would like to extend thanks to his special “shower lady” Gayle (We Care), Mary Jane (VAC) and neighbors Phil Cartmill and Wally Thompson for their kindnesses, as well as to nursing staff at the Sault Area Hospital who made his short stay as comfortable as possible.
George was a veteran who served overseas during WWII, and a proud long-term legion member. He was appreciative of Veterans Affairs Canada whose provision of services like Life Alert, yard care and bathroom renovations allowed him to live independently in his own home until the end of his life.
At George’s request, cremation has taken place and a private family service was held at Arthur Funeral Home & Cremation Centre (492 Wellington St. E., Sault Ste. Marie, ON P6A 2L9 705-759-2522). Interment of his ashes at Hillside Cemetery, Prince Township, will follow in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations to a charity of your choice would be appreciated. Among George’s favorites: the Sault Area Hospital Foundation, Salvation Army or the Heart & Stroke Foundation.
“I did not die young. I lived a long life and a good life within the support and love of my family. If you would honour me, then strive to live in love, for in that love I will live on.”
Expressions of sympathy may be made at www.arthurfuneralhome.com