George Alston Calder

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of George Alston Calder after a brief illness on December 9, 2023. George was born in Woodstock on March 26, 1934. He was predeceased by his mother Lilian Alston and his father William Calder. Much loved husband and soulmate of Wendy (Robinette) Calder for over 67 years. He is survived by his loving children Nancy, David (Margaret), Philip (Andrew), his grandchildren Jenny (Dan), Lauren (Gordon), Ally (Dave) and Reid and seven wonderful great grandchildren as well as his brother Bernard, his dear sister-in-law Dale Robinette and extended family and many friends.

He attended schools in Woodstock and Ridley College, graduating from Queens University and Osgoode Hall Law School with LL.B in 1960 and was called to the Bar in 1962, after articling with the law firm McCarthy & McCarthy. He practiced law in Woodstock for over 40 years.

George along with his wife Wendy were very involved in the community of Woodstock and beyond. He was Chairman & President for 2 terms in the early days of United Way (Woodstock), a Director of the Victorian Order of Nurses, 5 years as Director of the Children’s Aid Society and a Director of the Red Cross. He was a Director of the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce for 10 years and was extremely active in 1977, the 100th year of service to the community by the Chamber. George also served on the Board of the Ontario & Canadian Chambers.

In his spare time, he was and avid supporter and President of the Southampton Tennis Club, spending many happy hours on the courts. He loved laughing, and his infectious laugh will be missed by many who knew him.  He enjoyed hiking the Bruce Trail with his children and friends,  loved his mother-in-law’s roast beef dinners and his father-in-law’s stories of the law, the Victoria Club and his breakfast meetings with his long-time high school pals and classical music, especially Liszt. Biking played a big part in his Southampton summers, as well as reading and writing history books of the Southampton area.

At George’s request there will be no funeral or visitation. Cremation has taken place. A family memorial will take place at a later date. In honour of George, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Brock & Visser Funeral Home- Woodstock (519-539-0004)