JOCKEL, George – It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of a wonderful husband, father and Papa. George passed away peacefully on Friday, March 6, 2015 at Hospice Wellington surrounded by his loving family after a brave and courageous battle with brain cancer. Predeceased by his parents, George (1964) and Christina (1989). George is survived by Joan, his best friend and loving wife of 54 years, his children Janice and Fiona (Brett), adored Papa of Meghan and Madison, his sister Christine (Bill) Duncan (in Scotland), brother in laws Malcolm (Joan) Cumming and Iain (Clare) Cumming (in England), his very special friend and cousin Calum MacKay, cousins in Campbell River and Kenora, nieces and nephews in Scotland and England and family on the Isle of Lewis. George was born on May 6, 1936 in Glasgow Scotland. He spent his early years with the British Merchant Navy which allowed him to experience many amazing parts of the world. George also spent time working in the shipyards in Glasgow and hydro in the Outer Hebrides. Immigrating to Canada in 1967 and residing in Toronto he worked for CNR fixing locomotives. The family returned to Scotland for a brief 2 year stint before returning to Canada and settling in Guelph. George started working for ITT before moving to Omark (Blount) where he worked until his retirement. George was well known for his ability to fix anything, and in most cases, repair or rebuild to a condition better than originally made. His knowledge was extensive and many consulted his expertise when it came to projects. He was always there to lend a hand or a tool. He enjoyed good company, but more than anything else, he was fiercely proud of his children and grandchildren, he was loving, encouraging and supportive of all their endeavours. His daughters love of sport took up a lot of time and George jumped right in. He coached Guelph Girls Soccer and also spent time as the league president, and drove countless girls around Ontario to soccer matches. In the winter months he spent time coaching in the Guelph Ringette League, if he wasn’t behind the bench or along the side lines, he was in the stands cheering. Special thanks to Dr. Norrie and Dr. Lund and the staff at Grand River Medical, you are all amazing. Also a huge thanks to George’s very special nurses Heather and Shelly, who came to the house faithfully to care for George and the family, the staff at Groves Memorial Hospital, Hamilton General Hospital, Jurvinski Cancer Centre and Hospice Wellington for their kindness, compassion and competence. Thanks to a very dear friend, Anne Cassar, for your love and care and our special friends and neighbours for all the visits, help, support and kindness. Thank you does not seem to be enough for all that you have done for our family. The family received friends at Graham A. Giddy Funeral Home, 280 St. David Street South, Fergus Ontario on Monday, March 9, 2015 from 3:00pm to 5:00pm. At Georges request there will be no service. Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Groves Memorial Hospital Foundation or Hospice Wellington would be appreciated by the family.
www.grahamgiddyfh.com
519 843 3100
