DR. GEORGE L. FERGUSON

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DR. GEORGE L. FERGUSON George Fergy' Ferguson died peacefully in hospital on May 18, 2010. Born August 31, 1928, in Aneroid, SK, he was the dearly loved elder son of Les and Bertha May Ferguson. George is survived by his loving wife Norma, his daughters Patti (Dana Erickson) and Valerie, grandchildren Jenny (Jason Fletcher), Andrew, Adam, Stephen, Emily and Ben, and great-grandchildren Emma and Griffin. George was predeceased by his parents, brother Stan, daughter Margot (Alex McLean), granddaughter Leslie Osborne and step-mother Della Ferguson. George grew up in Nappan, NS, on the family farm, and was known down East as Pete' Ferguson. His mother Bertha May was a teacher who instilled in her family the value of education, and encouraged his love of learning. After completing his secondary education, he left home at the young age of 16 to attend McGill University. He graduated with a Bachelor of Agriculture (Honours) in 1949, the youngest graduate from the university at the time. He then enlisted in the R.C.A.F. where he trained to be a flight navigation officer. During his R.C.A.F. service he participated in search and rescue operations, and taught navigation to international NATO students. While stationed in Winnipeg, he met Norma Davidson, and they were married in October of 1953. They moved to Toronto shortly thereafter, where he attended the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, graduating in 1958. The family returned to Winnipeg, where he established his practice at the Winnipeg Chiropractic Clinic, and continued to practice until his retirement in 1995. George served as President of the Manitoba Chiropractic Association from 1963 to 1968, and was President of the Canadian Chiropractic Association from 1969 to 1972. During these years, George and his partner, Dr. W. Obie' Baizley, succeeded in introducing chiropractic treatment as an insured health service in the province of Manitoba. George was elected as a School Board Trustee for Tuxedo in 1964, and served until the school division amalgamated to become Assiniboine South. An active Mason for many years, George joined Scottish Rite in 1960. In 1962 he joined the Khartum Shrine Temple as a member of the Khartum Pipes and Drums. He was invited to join the Divan (Executive Officers) in 1974, and enjoyed the honour of serving as Potentate of Khartum Temple in 1982. During these busy years, George established lifelong friendships that he cherished always. He and Norma have many wonderful memories of Shrine trips, social and philanthropic gatherings, and all-night gin rummy games. An avid golfer, George enjoyed many summers on the Clear Lake Golf Course, and passed his love of the game along to his children and grandchildren. George and his family enjoyed many family trips together, to destinations such as Nova Scotia, Hawaii, California and Mexico. He particularly enjoyed winters spent in Isla Mujeres, Mexico, following his retirement. After retiring, George surprised and delighted his family with his discovery of painting. We are all thankful to own pieces of his artwork that reflect the important times and places in his life. George will be lovingly remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather and as a loyal friend. His smile and caring spirit will be fondly remembered. Friends are invited to attend a Service of Thanksgiving, followed by a celebration of George's life, on Friday, May 21 at 4:30 p.m., at the Shrine House, 1155 Wilkes Avenue. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Shrine Burns Institute, 1155 Wilkes Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3P 1B9, or to a charity of your choice. NEIL BARDAL INC. (204) 949 - 2200 www.nbardal.mb.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 20, 2010