George Lear Bradford

George was a devoted and loyal husband to his loving wife of 40 years, Maria (Rita) Elisabeth Verheul (nee Fontaine). He spent 22 wonderful years with his first wife, Frances Christina (nee Watson, predeceased, 1979). George is deeply cherished by his children: Sue, Bill (Paula) and Kate, and stepchildren Joyce, Frank, Mark (Michelle), Roy (Victoria), and Ted (predeceased, 2019). Grandfather to Zachary (Cienna) and Jessica. Opa to Christopher (Emma), Elizabeth (predeceased, 2022), David (Andjela), James (Lauren), Sylvia (Jason), Lindsay (Jacobe), Kayln (George), Ethan (Lataijah). Great-grandfather to Matthew, Raelynn, Liam, Kylie and Zachary. George will be missed by many dear nieces, nephews and friends.

George was born and raised in Toronto to parents Riley Armstrong Bradford and Kathleen Lear Bradford. He was predeceased by his sister, Beverley Hill, in 2022.

In his younger years, George worked as a surveyor across Ontario. He then pursued his dream of farming on a much-loved farm near Guelph with his first wife Frances where they raised their 3 children. From baling hay to Christmas celebrations, this place in time was a labor of love that created lasting memories. During these farming years, George also worked full time as a forklift operator for an automotive company.

Once retired, George and his second wife Rita, travelled extensively throughout the UK, Europe and had a memorable trip to China. With a camper van and Duffy the dog, they made their way all over North America collecting stories and videos to be shared for many years after. They also loved their annual Florida vacations, driving on wintry roads southbound to enjoy sand and surf with good friends Bob and Carolyn, Derek and Jacqui.

Another much loved pastime was the annual family camping / cottaging trip. Evenings were filled with entertaining board games and the family always fought to have George play on their side, especially for Trivial Pursuit. Famous for his knowledge and good smarts, having George on your team guaranteed a better chance to win.

George especially loved horses and dogs, books, music, and watching the Toronto Blue Jays. Every Saturday morning you could find him with a pen in hand, diligently working on the Saturday edition of the New York Times crossword. At the age of 80 years, and in an effort to stay current, George purchased his first computer. A fast learner, he developed a love for receiving and forwarding humorous emails to all his email buddies. At 89, George began to lose his vision and as usual, his good nature and attitude helped him take this loss in stride. With the help of his daughter Sue, he continued to work on his computer with special software and turned to audiobooks, podcasts and music.

George was a natural born storyteller and throughout his life, he loved nothing more than spending time with dear friends and family to share stories, food and drink. He was a good man and lived his life with honesty and integrity. He was an example of how to live a good life and what to strive for.

We will miss his sense of humour and his thoughtful, patient, understanding nature.

With much love, George’s memory will remain deep in our hearts forever.

At George's request, cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, donations to The Scott Mission or your local OSPCA would be appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to Westmount Memorial Celebration Centre, Kitchener (519-743-8900). Online condolences at www.westmountfuneralchapel.com