GEORGE HEGGIE

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GEORGE HEGGIE Peacefully in the evening of November 17, 2018 George Heggie, aged 92 years, passed away at the Grace Hospital in Winnipeg. He is survived by his loving wife of 71 years, Irene, his daughter Pam (Glenn) Hayward-Remple, her family, grandchildren, Sean (Corrie), Justine (Mark), Alysa, and great-grandchildren, Ruby, Kensie and Layla; as well as his son Rick and his family. George was born in Scotland, but moved to Winnipeg with his family at a very young age. He joined his brothers serving in the Navy during the Second World War, after which he returned to Winnipeg where he met Irene Edwards, who in 1947 became Irene Heggie. George's career in medical sales took their growing family across Canada, spending time in Calgary, Montreal and Oakville, but he finished his career and they spent their retirement in Winnipeg. They made the most of retirement, enjoying golfing, curling or anything that let Irene socialize and gave George an audience for his jokes and stories. George loved Canada, and they spent time every year exploring the country from coast to coast, whether it was visiting friends in British Columbia's wine country or returning to the same hotel in Prince Edward Island where everyone knew them. As much as they enjoyed travelling together, much of his retirement was spent focusing on his grandchildren, with countless hours spent building forts, going for long walks or offering advice whenever needed. Outside of his family, George became the neighbourhood mayor, making friends with everyone on his street. In particular, many hours were spent with his good friend, Jerrold, who was always available to fix anything, or just to sit around talking and admiring the many deer that made George's back yard home. Anyone serving George, be it cashier or server, needed to factor in some extra time, as no one escaped a joke or smart comment, always followed by his big smile and a laugh. Cremation has taken place and per George's wishes, there will be no public service. All who knew George are encouraged to say a toast with a glass of his favourite spiced rum. He was loved by many, and though he will be missed, all of us are left with memories and life lessons that will stay with us forever.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 24, 2018