George Thomas Ross

George was born in Cutknife, Saskatchewan to Flora and Robert (Bob) Ross. There he enjoyed a prairie childhood full of adventure. He loved to share the stories of that time with anyone that would listen. The family moved to Turtleford, Saskatchewan when George was in high school and there he made friends with whom he kept in touch with until the end of his life. In 1944, at the age of 17, George enlisted in the army with the hopes of serving overseas. The war ended just as his training was complete and it was always a regret of his that he never had the chance to fight for his country. In 1947, following in his mother’s footsteps, George went to Normal School to begin his life long passion and career as a teacher and educator until his retirement in 1981. George taught in schools in Saskatchewan and Manitoba, at one time teaching alongside his mother. In 1949 George began teaching at reserve schools, thus beginning his enduring connection and commitment First Nation education. At the time of his retirement George was the Director of Education for Indian and Northern Affairs, Manitoba Division. He was proud of his accomplishments as director, especially his work towards First Nation’s control of their own education and the final closure of residential schools in Manitoba. He believed that every First Nation child deserved to live at home and go to school in their own community. His work as teacher, principal, education specialist, superintendant and finally director touched the lives and hearts of many people in both Saskatchewan and Manitoba.

In 1953 George married Pauline, the love of his life. She was the pretty public health nurse with the sparkling brown eyes who captured his heart in Turtleford. They began their married life together in Norway House, Manitoba where daughters Patricia and Sharon were born. In 1956 George, Pauline and the girls moved to Sioux Valley First Nation in Manitoba, and two more daughters, Joanne and Lisette joined the family. In 1963 they all moved to the big city of Winnipeg where George left the classroom and joined the offices of Indian Affairs. In 1966 he completed his Arts degree and in 1968 his Education degree, both from the University of Manitoba.

George was a wonderful husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather and great grandfather. His love and respect for his wife shone through as he cared for her in their last years. They were still able to laugh and enjoy life together as best they could. Family life was central, filled with many happy moments: long car trips together to holiday and visit, summers spend at the cabin at Clear Lake to countless celebrations with family; that leave all of us with memories to cherish forever. Even as adults, his last words to his girls after a phone call or visit were always: “If you need anything, give me a call.”

George loved life and embraced it. Family, friends, travelling, hockey until 70, triathlons until 75, tackling projects and life in general with patience, a sense of humour and a generosity of spirit made George a man loved by many and respected by all. Even in his 30 years of retirement he gave; from canvassing for charities, many years of work with Citizen’s for Crime Awareness to picking up hundreds of bags of leaves for neighbours for recycling, always showing his energy and willingness to lend a hand.

George was predeceased his parents, sister Marjorie and infant grandson, Shawn. He is survived by his wife, Pauline (nee Prefontaine), daughters Patricia (Neil), Sharon (Bob), Joanne (Bob), Lisette (Earl); grandchildren Jesse, Randi (Ozzy), Cailee (Mike), Rory (Nigel), Laura; great-grandchildren Ajayom and Tejan; sisters-in-law Corinne and Gertrude; brother-in-law Jules (Agnes); cousins, nieces, nephews and many wonderful friends.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Dr. Czaykowski and staff at Cancer Care, Manitoba; Dr. Pelkey and staff at the Palliative Care Unit, St. Boniface Hospital; Dr. P. Pittman; Dr. S. Wong who has cared for Dad since he began his journey with cancer in 1995; and to all the staff of both the Palliative and Homecare programs.

In keeping with George’s wishes cremation has taken place. Mass and a celebration of life will take place on Monday, October 29 at 11:00 a.m. at Mary Mother of the Church, 85 Kirkbridge Drive, with Father Kevin Bettens as the Celebrant. A reception will follow in the church hall.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in George’s memory to Cancer Care Manitoba Foundation, 1160-675 McDermot Avenue, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 0V9 or to The Salvation Army, PO Box 1932, Winnipeg, MB, R3C 3R2.

Sunset and evening star,

And one clear call for me!

And may there be no moaning at the bar,

When I put out to sea.