It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Edward Joseph (“Joe”) George on Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2019 at La Verendrye General Hospital with family by his side.
Joe was born on Oct. 19, 1939 in Fort Frances, Ont. to Edward and Agnes George (nee Calder).
From an early age, Joe was a hard-worker with a strong work ethic. He was never afraid to venture out and obtain new skills. He worked all over Ontario and had many different job experiences.
Working for Public Works, he built dams and roads; at O&M, he worked cutting pulp, as well worked on the 340 tug. He also worked at Boise Cascade, as a foreman, before finally venturing off in 1973 with his own contracting career in the logging industry.
Our dad met many people and formed many great friendships. He always was willing to listen and learn. With those friendships, he loved reminiscing and story-telling of the “old days.”
Our dad was very sharp-witted and had an outstanding memory. He never forgot a name and always would inquire how others were doing. He truly was interested in their well-being and successes.
He also was an amazing cook and enjoyed cooking breakfasts for family, friends, and even the occasional entire hockey team.
Our dad was very proud of his Norwegian heritage and with his love of hockey and family, it brought him to Norway, where he met his relatives. He had a zest for life, culture, and history and made every moment count. He travelled to many countries and embraced the history of the country he was visiting.
He was an avid reader and had a library of books. He also was a member of the Knights of Columbus—Rainy Lake Council #2766. As well, he spent countless hours at the arena, cheering on his grandchildren.
We know our dad touched the lives of many people as he always made everyone feel important and valued. We have a lot of fond memories of spending time on the lake, family vacations, and the love of hockey. He loved quality time with family.
Joe forever will be missed by his wife, Phyllis; children, Brad (Lisa), Tuffy (Shannon), Debbie, Lisa (Darwin), and Bob (Zoe); grandchildren, Andrew (Paula), Jessica, Tyler (Jill), Erika, Ben, Joleigh, and Annalise; and brothers, John (Dylinda), Wayne, and Jim (Sherry).
Joe was predeceased by his parents, Edward and Agnes (nee Calder); sisters, Patricia and Frances; brothers, Herb and Bobby; as well as three sisters in infancy, Emma Corrine, Hannah Marie, and Louise Yvonne.
A visitation will be held on Friday, Feb. 15, 2019 at 7 p.m. at Green Funeral Home in Fort Frances. Parish prayers will be offered at 7:30 p.m.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, Feb. 16, 2019 at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes Roman Catholic Church in Fort Frances.
Interment will take place in Holy Cross Cemetery in Fort Frances.
The pallbearers will be Chris George, Neil George, Darwin Hayes, Landon Slomke, Shane Loyie, and Darren McCormick.
The honourary pallbearers will be Andrew and Jessica George, Tyler Miller, Ben George, and Joleigh and Annalise Hayes.
If friends so desire, in memoriam donations may be made to the Hemo-Dialysis Unit-La Verendrye Hospital.
