WILLIAM GEORGE WILLSON

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

WILLIAM GEORGE WILLSON Peacefully, on April 15, 2001, George Willson passed away, at the Grace General Hospital, after a brief illness. George is survived by his wife Patricia (Tutiah) sons, Dennis (Irene, Bianca, Tristan) of Capetown, Reginald of Minneapolis and Graham of Winnipeg; stepdaughter Beth Tutiah of Vancouver; mother-in-law Peigi Lennox of Winnipeg; sister Mary and Hugh Wheeler and family of Victoria; as well as his close friend of 46 years Lyall Davidson and special friends T.J., Sean, Patrick, Jason, and Alison. He was predeceased by his first wife Margaret (nee Halstrom). George was born on January 25, 1931, in Mufulira, Northern Rhodesia, immigrating to Canada and joining the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1955. With his postings in the Air Force, George and his family lived and traveled across Canada and made many close friendships that last to this day. In 1978 he retired at the rank of Major and moved to Winnipeg where he continued to be involved with the Air Force through the Air Cadets and later at Air Command in Winnipeg. George loved the speed and thrill of flying and the camaraderie of his extended Air Force family. Georges love of gardening grew and he was inspired by the time he spent working at Shelmerdines Nursery. Georges generosity and caring spirit was demonstrated through his volunteer work at Jocelyn House, which began in the early 90s and continued until his passing. He cherished the many people he met and worked with there. He enjoyed traveling and canoeing and had a great love of the outdoors, often spending time at the Assiniboine Park and the Conservatory. He also took great pleasure working with his hands in carpentry and gardening. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, April 18 at 3:00 p.m. at the Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Avenue, conducted by Captain Reverend Brad Busch, 17 Wing. A reception for family and friends will follow in the Chapel Lawn Reception Centre. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Georges name to Jocelyn House, 177 Egerton Road, Winnipeg MB R2M 2W7, or The Friends of the Assiniboine Park Conservatory, Box 24017, 15 Conservatory Drive, Winnipeg MB R3N 2B1. Arrangements entrusted to: CHAPEL LAWN FUNERAL HOME CEMETERY AND CREMATORIUM 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 17, 2001