George William Thornton

November 22, 1927 - September 27, 2019
George passed away peacefully on September 29, 2019 at Columbia House in Invermere BC.
George was born in Fort McCleod Alberta and moved to Invermere with his family when he was one year old. He married Audrey in 1959.
He is predeceased by his wife Audrey and his four siblings, Ethel, Sid, Elsie and Kay. He is survived by their daughter Yvonne and many nieces and nephews.
George had many jobs throughout his lifetime in the valley. Working underground at the Paradise Mine, guide outfitting with Jim McKay, surveying a potential highway route over Jumbo Pass, carpentry with Hal Bavin, he also worked at Home Hardware. After retiring he kept busy by Christmas tree
farming, maintaining forestry camp sites. Acting as a fire warden and maintaining hiking trails throughout the local mountains. George was an active outdoors person: hunting, fishing, camping, hiking and he especially loved skiing.
He was one of the original volunteers for the Mountain Friend program at Panorama. George skied with this group for many years, enjoying guiding visitors on the runs. He was also a dedicated member of the Valley Fitness Center as well as a fine gardener.
George and Audrey traveled extensively, to countries such as Egypt, China, Portugal, Nepal, as well as Africa and Australia. George was a kind gentle man who truly loved this valley and the surrounding mountains. There are many stories of adventures and misadventures he had while growing up in Invermere. He will be missed by all who knew him.
A heartfelt thank you to Doctor Schaffer, the staff at Columbia Gardens, Durand Manor, Columbia House, family and friends who cared for and supported George through this difficult time.
Please join us for a Celebration of Life on Saturday October 19 at 11 am at the Lake Windermere Alliance Church, 326-10 Ave, Invemere. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to ICAN.