George Ernest Ulyatt

George was passionate about three things in his life – his work, his involvement in amateur sport and his friendships.

He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Brandon University and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Manitoba. Called to the Bar in 1976, he practiced law for over 40 years in a varied career that included family, corporate and real estate law. He provided legal services to individuals, charities and corporations often pro bono. He served a number of administrative tribunals, including the Manitoba Mental Health Review Board for 20 years. He served as an Inquiry Officer under the Expropriation Act and was appointed to the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal, serving for 8 years.

George was very active in the hockey community. With friends, he helped establish MB Junior Hockey League’s Winnipeg South Blues and served as general manager for 16 years. He was associated with Hockey Manitoba in a number of roles over a 30-year period and served as President from 1995 until 2001. He helped bring the Centennial Cup to Winnipeg in 1992 and was instrumental in securing the World Junior Hockey Championship for Winnipeg in 1999. He was also involved at the national level and served in several capacities on the Board of Hockey Canada from 1995 until 2001. George was awarded the Hockey Canada Order of Merit in 2006.

George enjoyed life, hosting great Boxing Day and Canada Day parties; travelling extensively and making friends wherever he went. He loved his Goldens – Beau, Monty and Winston. His friends knew him for his dry humour, his kindness and compassion, his loyalty and his strength and bravery. Above all, George believed he had been truly blessed to have so many wonderful friends. He accepted his illness with grace and dignity and never complained. When asked how he was doing, he would reply that he was “living the dream.” Together with those he leaves behind, we raise a glass and say “cheers!”

A link to George's complete obituary and the live stream link of the service will be available to those who cannot attend. https://youtu.be/kpkFevcMTNQ