George UNDERWOOD

UNDERWOOD, George December 26, 1924 – May 03, 2014 Sadly, Family, Friends and Relatives say HIYACE SIAM, “Go if you must, respected one.” to beloved son George Underwood Sr. George passed away on Saturday, May 3 the birthday of his late son Doug Underwood, he was 89 years old. A true WSANEC warrior who lived by simple principles of working hard and living life in the traditional territory enjoying great success as a hunter, fisherman, boom-man. The family recalls their Dad running and laughing hard at the end of the work day on top of the spinning logs. He found great joy in sharing his bounty whether it was crabs, ducks, fish, or seagull eggs. It made sense that he served his country in World War II to fight against tyranny and defend the lands that he cherished so much. George served in the Princess Patricia Light Infantry and was involved in the last struggles in Italy. He served as a runner he carried messages, ammunition, and other supplies through active fire. His athletic agility and running style has been passed on to the many talented athletes in his large family. He was wounded twice and showed his scars honorably to children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. George is survived by his wife of 67 years, Geraldine Underwood, his siblings Harry Underwood, Marjorie Louie, Bertha Modeste, Bernie (Ben) Calvo, Patti Joseph, Esther Campbell, and his children: Barry (Cookie), Mavis, Verna (Joe), Gina, Diana (Dennis), Lisa, Steve, Floyd (Lorna), Ina, Kelly (Virginia), Jim (Noreen), Rhonda (Russell), and Charles. Predeceased by parents Bert and Ellen Underwood, siblings Adeline, Ed, Ben, Mary and children Joe, Doug, and Maureen. George was incredibly proud to have over 37 grandchildren and over 27 great- grandchildren. The family would like to extend profound respect and appreciation to the many helpers at the hospitals, Oak Bay Lodge and the Lodge at Broadmead who supported George through his trials of health. He always emerged grateful and joyful to be alive and his final song “God will love me forever, and ever, and ever” exemplified that he was ready for his final journey and we all needed to be happy for him. Prayer services to be held at PAUQUACHIN Hall at 7:00 pm on Wednesday May 07, 2014. Funeral service is to be held at PAUQUACHIN Hall at 9:00 am on Thursday May 08, 2014. Burial will be at TSAWOUT Cemetery with lunch to follow at the TSAWOUT Gymnasium.