Born May 7, 1938 in Wiltshire England. Suddenly and peacefully passed away on May 18, 2012 in Huntsville, ON. George was a canoe guide and instructor (Wilderness Bound) with a passion for exploring Arctic rivers. Professional photographer, videographer, and author; previous careers with Radio Shack Creative Department and the Canadian Armed Forces. He leaves wonderful memories with wife Barbara Burton (Huntsville) and “children” Philippa (Barrie-Izaak, Zachary, Blake); Richard (BC – Shannon, Ashley, Meghan, Geoffrey); Alison Russell (England – Angus, Fiona); Amanda Ridding (Barrie – Chris, Aaron, Alexx); Glenn Wiffin (Welland – Sylvia, Erik, Alayne, Ian); Alison Cadman (England – Chris); sister Adrienne Brown (Kingston – Ron) and brother Ian (England) and their children. He enjoyed the choir, nature club, Probus and Reel Alternatives during his five short years in Huntsville. Memorial celebration to take place on Sunday, June 3rd at 2 p.m. at Sutherland Hall, 30 High St., Huntsville. Photos and Memories welcomed: burtonbaj@sympatico.ca If desired, donations to ALS Society of Ontario: www.walkforals.ca/ontario (2012 walk in his name)
Funeral Services in Muskoka, Ontario
Maggie Clark
Hello Barbara,
I just found out about George’s passing. My heart is full of sadness for you and of memories of his generosity and goodness. I hope you are doing okay. He influenced a generation of young ones with his mentorship, as did you. P.S. if you remember us – I live in Kingston with 2 kiddos now, and Pascale has settled permanently on Baffin (kiddo as well : ). All the best, Maggie.
Sandy Stubbert
Dear Barbara,
You and George introduced me to beauty and delight of Palmer Rapids and the Madawaska many years ago when Marijka Hurko invited me to join in one of your white water warm-up weekends. I wish I had been able to join you and George on one of your epic Arctic trips. I was always full of envy before my friends Marijka, Norm Erikson and Maxine Crooke departed on yet another trip. I’d hear all about their adventures on their return. George and you facilitated wonderful trips – some life changing. I will always remember George each time I am fortunate enough to paddle down one of Canada’s many beautiful rivers.
Warmly,
Sandy
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Roch Prevost
George was a great ambassador for the outdoor community; he was a role model, an inspiration and a reference for a full spectrum of paddlers. He was passionate about his achievements, the videos he produced, his maps and books, his gear and his next adventures. I’ve never met a guy who was more committed to reaching his goals and objectives than George. All of George’s stories will be missed but never forgotten.Have a safe journey on your last trip George!
Barb please accept my sincere condolence as well as to all of George Family.
Barb
BarbaraBusy and I were so sorry to hear of George’s untimely death but thankful that he did not have to suffer through the last stages of ALS. He was an old friend with whom I shared many adventures in our youth and will be sorely missed. It was quite obvious that you were a wonderful partner and made him truly happy. Please accept our sincere sympathy at this difficult time.
Busy and Hugh Dale-Harris
Hugh Dale-Harris
BarbaraBusy & I were so sorry to hear of George’s death but thankful that he didn’t have to suffer through the last stages of ALS. He was a an old friend with whom I shared many adventures in our youth and he will be missed. Our sincere sympathy in your loss.
Hugh
Mike Rowlands
Barbara –
We in the Bird Study Group of the Hamilton Naturalists’ Club are very sorry to hear of George’s passing. He was instrumental in getting our bird study group to a new level of organization and in getting the involvement of a small executive group that has enriched our meetings ever since. We also enjoyed his wonderful movies on several occasions. He will be remembered fondly. Take care. – Michael
Wayne & Cathy Gignac
BarbSo sorry to hear of George’s passing. We have many memories of canoeing and northern paddling trips with both of you. Our prayers are with you and the family. Wayne and Cathy
Sherry Payne
Barb, I am so sorry for the loss of your husband. Find comfort in the many many memories that you made together. If there is anything I can do, please let me know.
Anne Bradley
Reliving fond memories of George and Barbara visiting me in Rankin Inlet. It was so good to see WCA friends. George made some great contributions to the canoing community. I, for one, will miss him very much. Love to you, Barbara.
Wendy McConnell
Barb…I am so very sorry for your loss. Dan and I both, send you our deepest sympathies.
Debbie Demers
Barb so sorry to hear of the passing of your husband George, on behalf of myself and Muskoka Victim Services our thoughts an prayers are with you and your family.