It is with deepest sorrow and much love that the family of George Edward (Ted) Gleeson announce his sudden passing on Saturday, May 18th, 2024, in his 90th year.

He will be lovingly missed and remembered by his wife of 68 years, Betty, and by his children Debbie (Bill), Bob, Wendy (Larry), Mike, Laurie, and Paul. Also remembered by his 17 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Survived by his brothers David (Delores), Bruce (Mary), and by his sister-in-law Dorothy (late Jim), brother-in-law Gary (Chris), and by his nieces and nephews. Fondly remembered by his other relatives, and friends.

Ted was born in Toronto, on June 3rd, 1934 to parents Katherine (Reid) and Stanley George Gleeson. He grew up in the St.Clair Avenue area and attended Regal Rd. public school; then completed grade 11 in commercial business at Western Tech/Commerce during his high school years. Another proud accomplishment during these years was his service training and certification as a reservist for the RCAF. His sense of responsibility paused his further
educational pursuits and Ted started working full time at the CPR office, one year before his Dad died; then Trader’s Finance for 2 more years helping to support his Mom and younger brother.

He left his home in Toronto in September of 1955 to board and work in Parry Sound, until his marriage to “the love of his life,” Betty, on May 12th,1956. Family was important to this couple and over the years they became proud parents of six children and instilled in them the value of hard work and showing love and service to others.

Ted first worked for Bob Thompson, owner of Georgian Bay Construction where some major projects included high schools in Parry Sound and Burks Falls. Then he provided bookkeeping services to some smaller businesses in the automotive and marine industry, later joining Clift Bros as bookkeeper and then Week’s construction as office manager and bookkeeper for many devoted years. Ted was a thinker and problem solver and was highly respected and a valuable asset to these companies until a heart attack forced him into retirement well above retirement age. He continued part-time for a few additional years until he could be replaced.

Ted loved sports, especially hockey and baseball. He continued his sports interests in Parry Sound as an assistant coach, working alongside Bev Crawford for many years in the Parry Sound minor hockey leagues; leading their team to the finalists position in the All Ontario Championships in 1983-84.

Ted also enjoyed reading and fishing. One of Ted’s memorable fishing trips was when his friend Raymond and he were up in the Parry area at a place called Mountain Rapids just off Mill Lake. Betty was in a boat with her cousin Raymond, Ted in another boat. Betty “accidentally” caught Ted with a hook on her first attempt at casting out a line! Now that’s a true fishing story!!!

Ted’s family wishes to send a special thank you to all the staff at Lakeland Long Term Care for their care and compassion.

Visitation will be held at Logan’s Funeral Home, 81 James Street, Parry Sound, on Saturday, June 1, 2024 from 12:00 – 1:00 P.M.

Memorial Service will take place in the Logan Memorial Chapel on Saturday, June 1st, at 1:00 P.M. Reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Salvation Army (food bank), Lakeland Long Term Care, or a charity of your choice.