George B. Weekes
Died: July 3, 2008 | Place: Residence
Obituary
WEEKES
Unexpectedly, but peacefully, in his favorite spot at the family cottage in Port Stanley, on Thursday July 3, 2008, George B. Weekes one week shy of his 84th birthday. Beloved husband of Veronika (Lenz). Predeceased by his first wife Edith “Edie” (1992). Loving father of Judy Weekes-Walker (Paul) of Holt, Michigan and Carol Weekes Schacter (Gordon) of London. Cherished “Boppa” of Alyson VanSickle (Sam) of Tecumseh, Michigan and great-grandfather of Riley VanSickle. Dear brother of June Bell (Chas) of St. Thomas. Brother-in-law of Ingrid Freisinger (George) of Aylmer, Rick Lenz (Pat) of St. Thomas, and Bernhard Lenz (Renate) of Berlin, Germany. Dearly loved uncle of his many nieces and nephews. Fondly remembered by many relatives and friends whom he nicknamed throughout the years. George served in the Canadian Armed Forces, overseas, where he entertained troops in the Canadian Army Shows during World War II. As an accomplished trumpet player he played in many bands, including the Johnny Downs Orchestra, where he was often heard playing at the Stork Club in Port Stanley. Recently George and the members of the Johnny Downs Orchestra, were the first to be inducted into The Stork Club Big Band Museum and Hall of Fame. George ran the Fred J. Weekes and Son Insurance Agency in London for over 50 years following his father’s retirement. He was a lifelong member of the Union Lodge No. 380 A.F. & A.M. of London. George happily spent his winters with his wife in North Fort Myers, Florida. Cremation has taken place. A memorial gathering to celebrate George’s life will be held at the family cottage on Saturday July 12, 2008 from 2:00 to 5:00 pm in Port Stanley. In keeping with George’s style and tradition “keep it casual”. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, 150-633 Colborne Street, London ON N6B 2V3 or to the London Regional Cancer Program, 747 Baseline Road East, London ON N6C 2R6. A. Millard George Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements 519-433-5184. Online condolences accepted at www.amgfh.com
“See ya at the beach”
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Carol,
Sorry to see in the paper today, of your father’s death. My heart goes out to you.
Marilyn
While growing up on Grimmond’s Beach during the summer of my youth, we had a quaint custom of calling all the adults Aunt or Uncle. It was just the way that neighbors were back then. Close. As we got older the custom remained as a remembrance of times gone bye. Although not related, George was essentially my Uncle. He offered sage advice, a comedic outlook on life (He called my son Jon, No Jon) and had wonderful memories of Port Stanley. It is impossible to count the number of times that I would hear him practicing with his horn, or see him out on the back deck listening to the big bands. Hearing the fridge opening or the crackle of wood burning in his home built fireplace (“Cost me less than 10 bucks”) were both pleasing sounds of summer that will always bring back fond memories. Thanks to Veronica, Judy and Carol for sharing their wonderful treasure with the rest of us. “A friend is one who knows us, but loves us anyway.” Goodbye old friend. Jeff, Pat, Andrew, No Jon and Julia.
Dear Judy and Carol
I was very sad to hear of your Dad’s passing in today’s paper. In keeping with your Dad having a nickname for everyone, my nickname for him was “GeorgiePorgie” and called him that everytime he came into the bank. I have thought of him often over the years and the many laughs we use to have when he came into the bank. Was definitely one of my favorite customers. I will have many good memories of him. My deepest sympathies to you and your families….
Patti Mitchell
To Judy and Carol,
I was one of the Paramed nurses when your mother was ill and I still remember your Dad’s strength and support that he had for your mother during her final months. I hope you two can find the same strength now as you say goodbye to a loving Dad and go on.
Even after all these years each time I pass the house on Ridout I think of George and Edie and will continue to do so.
Sincerely,
Heather Bedford
Dear Carol,,Judy and families,
I was very sad to hear of your Dad’s passing. I could not help but smile though, at the thought of him being in his favorite place, doing what he loved best. When we lost my father, one of our greatest comforts was knowing this about him too.
Carol, I would also like to thank you for being such a supportive friend over the years. I always knew you would be there for me if I needed you. Time and long distance may have come between us, but good friends are always there. Please let me know if there is anything I can do.
Ian and I hope to be able to make the gathering of friends and family. I look forward to giving you a big hug then.
Take care.
Love Merla
Carol and family,
I was so sorry to hear about your Dad. I have fond memories of visiting his cottage and hearing his stories of playing in the orchestra!
My condolences go out to the whole family at this difficult time.
Carol, so sorry to hear about the passing of your father. Scott and I send our sympathy.
Pete
judy: please accept my sympathies from joy and i in the loss of your father. we spent many years being “business neighbours” on wellington street together with our
families. i hope to see you at the gathering on saturday.
jon/joy chapman
Judy & Family
So sorry for your loss
Our thoughts are with you
Stan & Sharon
& Family
Judy, Paul, Alyson & Family: So sorry to hear of the passing of your father and grandfather. May the memories you hold in your heart, help comfort you. You were so lucky to have him in your life for so long, so cherish that and take care. Thinking of you, Bonnie & Ron Mathers & Family
Dear Paul and Judy
My heart is filled with sadness at your loss of father. I can not imagine the pain
you feel now but I wanted to let you know that our loving thoughts are with you.
No words can express how much a part of your life your dad was, and will always be.
Your dad was a jewel among us, always giving us a shining example of kindness, caring,
loving, and fun.
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers,
Kevin, Susan, Russell and Matthew Walsh
To Judy and Family
We were so sorry to hear of your loss.
Our thoughts and Prayers are with you and yours.
Marilyn and Betty Anne
Judy, so sorry to hear about your father’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Paul and Alyson.
I’m sure his “celebration of life” will be one to be remembered.
I’ve come to know George (and Veronika) over the last few years as he came into the store where I work. I always got a smile on my face when I saw that they were on our schedule to come in. It was always a pleasure to visit with them both. George knew my Grandparents (Wils and Dorie Thornton)and Great Aunt and Uncle from their active dancing days and always asked how they were. I was very sad to pass the information on to my grandpa of George’s passing. I will miss my visits with George.
One last thought…
“Whenever I hear the sounds of trumpets in the air…
It will put a smile on my face because I’ll know George is there!” Mary Abbott
Judy,
Sad to hear of your dad’s passing. Remembering you & your dad as such nice people. May your memories bring you comfort.
Sam Boyd
We have fond memories of George playing in the Johnny Downs Band at Wonderland. Our sympathies are with you. NORM AND BETTE TUFTS, GRAND BEND.
Dear Judy:
I was sadden by the news of your father’s passing. My deepest condolences to you and your family.
Warmest regards,
Shane