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GEORGE BRANDER CAMPBELL
Born: May 20, 1931
Date of Passing: Feb 21, 2025
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryGEORGE BRANDER CAMPBELL
Peacefully, and surrounded by the love of his family, George Brander Campbell passed away on Friday, February 21, 2025, at the Health Sciences Centre.
George is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Sheila (nee Macdonald); sons, Grant (Thomas Holton) and Robert (Beatrice Mathias) and grandson Connor. He also leaves to mourn his passing brother Don, sisters, Verna (Mervin) McDonald, Frances (Jack) Queau, and numerous nieces and nephews. George was predeceased by parents, Charles and Kitty, brothers, Edward, Forbes and Tom, sisters, Maude Dyck, Shirley Monkman, and Kathleen Leary.
George was born on May 20, 1931, in Norway House, the eldest of 10 children. On September 24, 1960, he married Sheila Macdonald in Rosedale United Church, Winnipeg. George and Sheila resided in several locations, eventually making Winnipeg their permanent home.
George’s work life began as a boat operator and guide in Norway House. He went on to work in the hospital office as a clerk, eventually becoming the hospital administrator. George’s career included Director General of Medical Services in Ottawa, and Regional Director General of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada at the time of his retirement.
Following retirement, George transitioned to an executive role with Norway House Cree Nation. He also served on various committees, commissions, and boards such as the St. Boniface Hospital and CancerCare Manitoba.
George was a long-time member of the Masonic Order, initiated in Sioux Lookout, ON. He later affiliated with Sturgeon Creek Lodge #145. George was also a proud member of Khartum Temple Shriners, serving on the Director’s Staff for several years. In addition, George was a faithful member of St. Andrew’s Anglican Church.
George had a lifelong love of the outdoors, enjoying hunting and fishing at Shoal Lake, as well as many wonderful and memorable years at the family cottage in Grand Marais.
George’s Cree heritage was deeply meaningful to him. He maintained his Cree language and culture, and profoundly respected its history and teachings. As an Elder, George enriched the lives of countless others with his knowledge and wisdom.
George embodied honour, integrity, generosity and kindness. He lived an unwavering and loving life as a devoted husband, father and grandfather. George will be remembered as being truly genuine by those privileged to know this good and exceptional man. George’s remarkable legacy illuminated the lives of many. From humble beginnings to heights of success, his impact will inspire and endure for generations to come.
The family extends heartfelt appreciation to all who attended to George in his final hours. Flowers respectfully declined. If so desired, memorial donations to a charity of one’s choice would be appreciated.
Funeral service will be held on Friday, February 28, 2025, at St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, 2700 Portage Avenue, at 10:30 a.m. with Reverend Liz Richens and Reverend Canon Dr. Murray Still officiating. Interment at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home and Cemetery, 4000 Portage Ave. followed by a reception.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 26, 2025
Condolences & Memories (10 entries)
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My Husband Bob & I met George in 1962 in Norway House, George was such a jovial & sincere guy, we enjoyed our visits over the years, I will never forget his big booming voice & welcoming smile. I am so sorry for your loss Sheila, Grant, Robert & family. - Posted by: Karen Henderson (Friend) on: Mar 15, 2025
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My condolences Sheila to you and your family. I always thought George was a wonderful man and had great respect for him. I hope you will find comfort in all the wonderful memories you must have of sharing your life with him. With sincere sympathy, Kelly and Sarah Mack (Gary’s family) - Posted by: Kelly Mack (Family of a neighbour) on: Mar 04, 2025
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I knew George only by reputation…. as a proud, energetic, gentle man… the husband of a neighbor from my youthful days on Hetherington Avenue in Fort Rouge. As outlined in his obituary, George’s life was filled with accomplishments…. highlighted by 64 years as a husband & father. My condolences & sympathy to Sheila, all of the Campbell family & friends of George!! - Posted by: John Rendall (Admirer) on: Mar 02, 2025
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What a dignified send-off for a gentle gentleman! I knew George through the church, especially the Elders Circle, and I always had a lot of respect for him and the way he was with people. I was hoping to see Verna and Mervin at the funeral. I babysat Alita and Brander when they were little, when they were in Grand Rapids. I know George will be greatly missed. Ellen - Posted by: Ellen Cook (firend) on: Feb 28, 2025
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You will never meet a more personable individual … Uncle George was one of a kind … he was wise, he was grateful and he could keep a straight face while yanking your leg. 🙏❤️😊 - Posted by: Bruce Webb (Nephew) on: Feb 28, 2025
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Uncle George was a dynamic individual … He was a “Jack of all trades“, fountain of knowledge and the King of keeping a straight face when he was messing with your mind 🙏 - Posted by: Bruce Webb (Nephew) on: Feb 28, 2025
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"Uncle George" was always there for all of us, he was a gentle and kind man with a twinkle in his eye and a mischievous laugh. We thank you Uncle George for reminding us always of the meaning of family and of love. Travel well Uncle, til we meet again. Ekosi, Brenda, Glenn and family. - Posted by: Brenda , Glenn and family (niece) on: Feb 27, 2025
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Sheila and family. My deepest sympathy to you and your loving family. A sad time for all but many happy memories to cherish. Thinking of you. Sally - Posted by: Sally Shkut (Graceffo) Mississauga, Ontario (Old school friend of Sheila) on: Feb 26, 2025
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Sheila, Rob, Beatrice, Connor, Grant and Thomas, we are so sorry to hear about George's passing. We have such fond memories of George and Sheila coming to Connor's hockey games or seeing them at Connor's birthday parties. Savannah has many more special memories of her time with George and Sheila and the rest of the family. George was a such a special person, so enjoyed our talks. Love and hugs to you all! - Posted by: Leanne & Savannah Drad (Family Friends) on: Feb 26, 2025
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Sheila and family. My condolences in your recent loss of George. May he rest in peace. Leila Goods - Posted by: Leila Goods (Friend) on: Feb 26, 2025