It is with profound sadness that the family of George Ward announce his passing on October 19, 2014, at the age of 69 years, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. George will forever be remembered and treasured by his wife, Marlene of 48 years, daughter LeeAnn (Scott), and son Jason (Krista). George was a proud and active Grandpa to Samantha, Austin, Evan, Riley and GGpa to Nash. George is also survived by sister Mary (Bob), brothers Dan (Bonnie) and Tom (Laurie), along with numerous nieces, nephews, in-laws and friends.
George was born on May 29, 1945 in Trail, BC, a son of the late Cyril and Betty Ward. Upon his graduation from High School in 1964, George entered the Machinist apprenticeship program at Cominco. He completed the program in 1969. George was always open to new things, both personally and professionally. He took a short leave of absence to teach at Rossland High School in 1972. In 1976, George transferred to management in the Zinc Operations. He later returned to the Machine Shop as General Foreman, then the Superintendent of Manufacturing. Georgeís final years at Cominco were spent in Industrial Relations and Property Support prior to his retirement in 2001. George always worked hard and was fortunate to retire early; his retirement song was, "I Did It My Way”.
A machinist by trade, George had the skills to design and build things of beauty and great function. There wasn’t a project George would not take on. He enjoyed working with wood, constructing projects large and small and of course, remodeling old cars. Nothing made George happier than hopping into one of his hot rods and going for a cruise with family and friends. He was very proud that he was able to complete a car for each grandchild - a treasure for them to behold.
George was a very community minded individual. He was involved with many different events and groups over the years. When his kids were young, he volunteered for the Red Mountain Ski Patrol, the School Board, Beaver Valley Skating Club, Beavers & Cubs (he was a Queen Scout, himself), and coached baseball and softball. Later, George announced at Nitehawk Games, and was active in Community Policing and Beaver Valley May Days. He enjoyed the excitement the BC Winter Games brought and all the new people he met. Of course, George was always available to transport royalty in local parades. Being a natural leader, George enjoyed his involvement with the Car Club and was an integral part of the Fruitvale Co-op and Christina Campers Associations.
George was someone that people always turned to with their questions and problems. If he did not have an answer, he would persist until he figured it out. George was an intelligent, witty, and talented man. He will be deeply missed, but always remembered for the difference he made in the all lives he touched.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 8 at 1:00 at the Reception Hall at the Trail United Church (1300 Pine Ave).