Obituary of George Vickers

VICKERS, George - 85. It is with a great sense of loss that the family of George Vickers of Port Hawkesbury (formerly of Lower South River and North Sydney), announce the passing of a beloved husband and father. George slipped away as quietly as he lived on Sunday, December 28, 2003, while watching a hockey game on T.V. with his beloved wife and constant companion, Margaret. His passing, marks the end of a courageous struggle at home and a lengthy convalescence in the care of family and friends. George was a son of the late Jacob and Lillian (Marsh) Vickers and was predeceased by brothers, Jake (Boularderie); Sid (Sydney Mines); sister, Sybil Bach, (Fort Lauderdale). He is survived by brother, Joe, Fort Lauderdale; sisters, June Brown, Florida; Ellen Enos, California. George was also predeceased by son, Peter Francis, who died tragically at Westray. He is survived by his grieving wife, Margaret; children, Mildred (Tom) D'Arcy, George (Myra), Harold (Laura), Paul (Karen), Madonna Gillis and also daughter-in-law, Christene Vickers Crosby (Pete). Also surviving are 15 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild who will miss his kindness and generosity. George was educated at St. John School and Immaculate Conception School in Sydney Mines. He was a veteran of the Second World War and volunteered for service overseas in Italy as a member of the Cape Breton Highlanders. Wounded overseas, he was returned home in 1944. Despite the effects of a debilitating war injury, George lived life to the fullest, cheerfully and without complaint. He was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 43, Port Hawkesbury and attended Remembrance Day ceremonies even to the present year. George was a member of St. Joseph's Parish, Port Hawkesbury and an honorary member of Knights of Columbus of Santa Maria Council 2024, Sydney Mines. In May of 1994, George was inducted as 4th Degree Knights of Columbus. George's life interests and hobbies were many and varied. Family and friends will fondly remember George as an outdoor enthusiast, hunter and fisherman. He was an avid card player and was involved in horse racing as both owner and spectator for many years. He was a strong supporter of local Junior 'B' hockey and for many years attended every game. He served several years on the Junior 'B' executive and as team statistician. George had a strong interest in local educational opportunities and for several years served as an active member of the School Board for the local Vocational School. Resting in Dennis Haverstock Funeral Home, Port Hawkesbury, visitation will be Wednesday 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. A Legion service will be held 7 p.m. followed by a Vigil Service at 8:30 p.m. Funeral mass will be held Thursday at 2 p.m. in St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church, Port Hawkesbury, Father Bill Crispo and Father James Gillis concelebrating. Interment in St. Ninian's Parish Cemetery, Antigonish. Memorial donations may be made to The War Amps - Nova Scotia or Nova Scotia Home Care. On-line condolences to: www.haverstocks.com