We are deeply saddened to announce that George passed away peacefully at Rogers Cove Retirement Residence on Sept. 5, 2024.
George grew up in the small, rural town of Ayr, Ontario with his parents Edward and Millicent, and his younger brother David (predeceased George in 2017).
One of his great joys was the Wilgress Family Christmas get together with his brother David’s family where he would reminisce with stories of the past.
He attended Grades 1 through 6 in the one room school house where his mother was the one and only teacher — “Couldn’t get in trouble at school without mom knowing it.”
He was an active member of the Scouts and worked many odd jobs in his youth with hopes of buying his first car.
He worked briefly at the Canadian Bank of Commerce before enlisting in the Navy, where he graduated top of his class from Cornwallis Basic Training and the Naval Aircraft Maintenance School.
He served aboard the HCMS Bonaventure Aircraft Carrier and completed his private pilot license during a self-imposed crash course during leave.
He married Jennie Dedman in 1959 and together they raised six children.
George enjoyed a successful 27-year career with Air Canada as a Certified Aircraft Maintenance Engineer.
He later balanced family life with a passion for farming, boating, mechanics, and building the family home in Caledon East.
He is survived by his beloved wife Jennie; children Susan (Norm), Tim, Paul, Peter (Serena), Andrew (Lisa), and Ruth (Chris); grandchildren Sam, Jennie, Bryn, Kylie, Jessica, Neal, Eric and Sheldon; and great-grandchildren Harper, Georgia, Zoey, and Jackson.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2025 at Billingsley Funeral Home from 1:00 – 1:30 pm. The memorial service will follow at 1:30 pm in the chapel.
Donations in George’s memory may be made to Hospice Huntsville at www.hospicehuntsville.com.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Staff at Rogers Cove Retirement Residence for their loving care.
George has gone before us, but he will never be forgotten.
Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Billingsley Funeral Home.
