GEORGE THOMAS WILLIAMS

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GEORGE THOMAS WILLIAMS It is with sadness that the family announce that peacefully on October 14, 2001 as the sun broke through the grey October skies, our beloved father and poppa started on his final journey after a valiant battle with cancer. Dad was surrounded by his family, who were so very grateful to have been with him in his final hours. Dad was predeceased by our mother Hazel, who passed away on September 14, 1993. He will be deeply missed by his children, Nancy (David) Primmer, Martin (Colleen) Williams, Brenda (Chris) Cleverley; and his grandchildren, Lindsay, Kristin, Paige, Marcus, Katelyn, Kelby, and Connor. He is also survived by his sister Margaret (Roy) Macdonald. Dad was born November 26, 1916 at the family home on Grosvenor and remained in Winnipeg all his life, except when he was called to duty in 1942. He served in the R.C.A.F. as a navigator in the 6th bomber group of the 431st squadron based in England. Dad flew more than 40 missions and at the end of his tour he was retained as a navigation instructor. Dad had an opportunity in January of 1939 to buy a sheet metal company that became Great West Metal Ltd. He was an astute businessman and worked diligently to create a successful business. In 1982 Dad retired and turned the day-to day operation of the company over to his son Martin. However, right up to his death he was eager to listen and give advice on major decisions and strategies. Dad met the love of his life Hazel shortly after the war and in 1949 they were married and raised their three children. George and Hazel shared a very special relationship for almost 44 years. Our favourite times as a family were spent at the cottages at Clearwater Bay, ON. Dad hardly ever missed a weekend from May opening to October closings. He loved to have all his family there with him and this past season he spent many hours just sitting on the deck watching the grandchildren swim and fish off the dock. He actually had his last swim during the hot spell in August of this year. The lake has many fond memories for all of as, especially now. Georges spirit will always be there, but it wont ever be the same there without his presence. Dad was also a avid golfer and he was a member of Southwood for 50 years and pretty darn good golfer. Some of his other hobbies included skeet shooting and photography. He also treasured his many trips to Maui where he would golf the course at Kapalua and the old gang from the Maui Kai will miss him. He had wonderful memories of the friendships he made there. Dads other favourite time of the year was Christmas. He loved Christmas and spent hours decorating the house on South Drive, usually with Brendas help. He always was so glad to have everybody come to the house on Christmas Day for presents and turkey, and we are glad we were able to give that to him, especially after mom passed away. Dad was a man of great integrity and a true gentleman. If he was your friend, he would do anything for you, as many people will attest to. Dad you were a wonderful father, a great provider, and we admire you very much. You have left all of us a great legacy and we will miss you terribly and love you forever. In time, when our loss subsides, we will tell great "George" stories; there are many. The family would like to thank Dr. R. Hayward for his care of our Dad and especially the wonderful, caring, and compassionate staff from the 5th floor at the Victoria General Hospital who helped Dad to be comfortable in his final days and for the support the family received during this very trying time. You were all wonderful. A Celebration of Georges life will be held Thursday, October 18 at 2:00 p.m. in the Leatherdale Gardiner Funeral Chapel, 1501 Waverley St., with Rev. Dr. Gordon Taylor officiating. Interment will be held Friday, October 19 at 10:30 a.m. at the Williams family plot in Elmwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of George to the Victoria General Hospital Research Foundation, 2340 Pembina Hwy., Winnipeg, MB, R3T 9Z9. LEATHERDALE GARDINER 1501 Waverley Street 949-4860

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 18, 2001