Obituary of George Stinson

With great sadness, the family of George Stinson, of London, announce his passing on Friday, June 7, 2019, in his 79th year. George will be missed by his children, David (Carole) Stinson, and Shana (Dave) Mechefske, along with his grandchildren: Gray and Micaela Stinson, Madeleine Stinson, and Carter and Gage Mechefske. He will also be remembered by Margaret Stinson; his sisters, Winnie (Jim) Wills, of London, and Violet (Jack) Cahoon, of Northern Ireland; nieces, Claudia, of London, and Shakira (Brian), of Oklahoma; sister-in-law, Phyllis Stinson, of Northern Ireland; and by many other nieces, nephews, extended family and friends, including Heather and Mike Hines. Born in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, George joined the Royal Air Force when he was 18 years old. He had a career with the British Ministry of Defence and was stationed in Christmas Island, Singapore and Germany. Over the years, George talked about his many adventures. Following retirement from the Ministry of Defence, he immigrated to London, Ontario in 1969. His young family soon joined him and they became proud Canadian citizens. In 1973, George, along with Margaret Stinson, founded Stinson Security Services Limited. More than 45 years later, George’s vision has become a successful second-generation, family owned and operated business, run by David and Shana. George was a well-respected local businessperson, who also owned The Travel Bug in Byron for many years. He had many friends, whom he valued greatly, including current and retired members of the London Police Service and their families, the Covent Garden Market coffee crew, Granton area farmers, and friends from around the world. He loved to travel, fish and hunt. He enjoyed cooking, baking, gourmet food and wine. A Guinness went down well too. In keeping with George’s wishes, a private family Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. George’s ashes will be scattered on a remote lake in Ontario, where he spent many years fishing with his son, eldest grandson, son-in-law and friends. The family would welcome receiving cards or letters with your recollections of George. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of George are asked to consider London Down Syndrome Association or SARI Therapeutic Riding.