George Walter Cormie

George grew up in Calgary, Alberta. After completing school, he pursued a Master of Science in Zoology and a Bachelor of Education at the University of Alberta. He began his career working with undergraduate students at the University, and in 1976 he began teaching Biology at Leduc Composite High School. He loved teaching and was passionate about sharing his love of science with his students. George taught until his diagnosis had him facing retirement in 2012. He brought humour and adventure to his teaching practices. He was known for taking groups of students to Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre on Vancouver Island for spring break, and did so for many years throughout his career. George was president of the ATA Science Council in 1995/96; he received a Distinguished Service award in 1998; and he co-wrote parts of the Science Curriculum for the Alberta Ministry of Education. George positively influenced many of the students, and staff he worked with throughout his career in education.

When George wasn’t working, he spent much of his time camping, canoeing, and woodworking. In the spring and summer, he loved to spend time camping at Twin Lakes with his family and friends, where he would fish and canoe on the peaceful lake. George also engaged in his love for canoeing on the North Saskatchewan River where he would spend days canoeing with his son and close friends. Above all, he loved being a grandfather. He adored each one of his grandchildren and would jump at any opportunity to spend time with them.

George was an animated storyteller, specializing in some very scary camping stories; sometimes so terrifying that he would often scare himself along with his listeners. His sense of humor was second to none. He took pride in his joke telling, and would always put a humorous spin in any conversation.

George was very involved in Alcoholics Anonymous. Both he and his family were very proud of his 35 years of sobriety. He was always looking to help others suffering from alcoholism, and was always happy to sponsor anyone looking to get sober.

Left to cherish his memory is his son Christopher (Amy) Cormie, daughters Heather (Steve) Reese, Chelsea Cormie, and Samantha Cormie; grandchildren Jessica & Megan Reese, Tayvin Cormie, Quinn Cormie, and Hayden; brothers Gordon (Drew) Cormie & David (Lorraine) Cormie; as well as extended family and close friends Doug Saumer & Dennis Nosyk.

George was predeceased by his wife Relda Cormie in 2015.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Alberta or the Science Alberta Foundation.

A Live Stream of the Celebration of George’s Life will be available on April 7, at 2pm if you search for his obituary on the website: www.hainstockleduc.com

If anyone wishes to leave condolences for the family, you can do so at the above website.