Listed in Memorials
Passed away peacefully on Friday May 10, 2024 at Sunnybrook Veterans Centre at the age of 82.
Lovingly remembered by his beloved wife Grace, his children Diane (Murray), Irvine (Sam) and Alan (Alison), Robert and Michelle.
Loved by his sisters Diana (Bill) and Betty ( Bob)
Adored Grandpa of Natalie(Jeff), Jessica, John (Adriana), Robert (Rose), Jordan, Emma (Cal), Etuk, Kunnuk and Great Grandson William.
Missed by his furry companions Brandy, Daisy, Jack and Sailor.
Loved by many precious nieces, nephews and cousins.
George was a wonderful husband, father, son, brother, uncle, grandpa, great grandpa,friend, comrad, soldier and teacher.
Proud Naval Chief, Petty Officer retiree with 45 years of service in the Canadian Military (Navy).
George was awarded the Order of Military Merit (Chief Petty Officer 1st Class) by the Governor General of Canada.
His most treasured memories include marrying Grace, joining the Navy with childhood friend Dick at 17 years of age, being part of the construction of the Canadian Frigate Program, working with Captain Bruce METTP , from 1958-1984 he served on 15 ships (Carleton, Cornwallis, Swansea, Stadacona, Cayuga, Nootka, Nipigon, Chaudiere, CFB Halifax, Restigouche, MarCom HQ, Iroquois, FMG-A, Algonquin and NDHQ Ottawa).
He is most proud of his family and his service in the Canadian Military.
Favourite activities included playing and coaching hockey ( cheering on the Montreal Canadians while other family members cheered on the Maple Leafs), golfing (especially Father’s Day Weekend getaway and 9 holes of golf with his daughter-in -law Sam), water-polo ( the Navy team that almost made it to the Olympics), playing Santa Claus for his grandchildren, discussing politics and current events, creating itineraries with military precision for the fridge, cooking/serving/eating lobster and steak with family and friends, vacationing in Florida, Happy Hours, playing/teaching cribbage, playing in the pool especially with his grandchildren, snuggling with his furry creatures while watching M*A*S*H* in his lazy boy chair and listening to Rod Stewart ( especially enjoyed going to his concert with Irv and Sam and standing on a foldout chair for the entire concert).
George worked hard and loved life to it’s fullest.
While he was at Veterans he participated in several interviews and shared his time at sea with a group of highschool students who stayed in touch with him even after their time together. He was a wonderful storyteller and enjoyed discussing history and world events. Although he had travelled throughout the world he always looked forward to coming home to Canada.
After his grandchildren would leave from a visit leaving their handprints on the sliding glass doors he wouldn’t let Grandma Grace clean the doors.
He recently gave his great grandchild, William his first train set and he spent an afternoon watching him play. He will be remembered and missed for his welcoming smile and love of life.
Please join the family on Thursday May 16th 1:00 pm at ARMSTRONG FUNERAL HOME, 124 King Street East, Oshawa for a Celebration of Life Service. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service from 12pm to 1pm. Cremation has taken place. Interment of Ashes in Woodlawn, Cornwall at a later date.
In memory of George, please consider a donation to the Veterans Program at Sunnybrook Health Science Centre For online condolences please visit armstrongfh.ca