May 9, 1936 - March 21, 2019
George was born at the Dryden Red Cross Hospital to George Edward and Dorothy Elizabeth Lever and he was the fifth of ten children. He was predeceased by his parents, infant brother George Andrew, Sister Ella Bernice and brothers Herbert Arthur, Roy Albert and William Edward. He is survived by sisters Tessa Smith, Ruth (Ray) Wilson and Mary Albisser and brother James Robert (recently deceased) as well as many nieces and nephews.
George received his education at Van Horne Township School and Albert Street Elementary in Dryden, Ontario. To assist in supporting the family after his father died he went to work shortly after finishing school and worked at cutting wood and farming with neighbours. At eighteen he was hired at Lake and Plumbing and Heating as an apprentice and continued on to get his Journeyman's certificate. He worked there until 1968 when he moved to BC.
As a young man he was an avid hunter and fisherman and explored the Yukon extensively by skidoo. He was a good marksman and successful hunter and frequently won the Christmas turkey in competitions. After moving to Prince George, BC he quickly found work and continued north first to MacKenzie then on to Yukon. He became a Yukoner very quickly and never considered living elsewhere. He was perceived as a true sourdough with his beard and floppy leather hat and was once asked to play that role in a CBC documentary on the north. He had a small plane pilot license in Dryden and Whitehorse for many years. Through his work with major contractors in Yukon he became well known in all surrounding communities as well as Whitehorse and ran many of the jobs. His high standard in his work meant he was in demand and he trained many apprentices over the years.
He retired at 65 and led a quiet life at his home in Wolf Creek where he spent his time building, carving and gardening. He maintained connections with family and friends and was well liked and respected throughout his life. Not long before he passed away he said he was very happy with his life and had no regrets. He will be missed by all who knew him. In accordance with George's wishes there will be no service. Cremation has already taken place.