George Weldon Cook

George Cook was born on Grand Manan, eldest son of the late Percy and Alice Cook (Bass). He leaves to mourn his wife of 50 years, Linda (Steeves), one son, James (Rose), and two grandchildren Amanda and Kyle.  He is also survived by his sister Lorraine MacNeill of Grand Manan, and five brothers: Craig of Calgary, Alberta; Rodney (Sylvia) of Saint John, NB; John of Shediac Cape; Dwight (Joanne) of Barachois, NB; and Russell (Kathy) of Porters Lake, NS.  He is survived by a number of nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by a brother, Douglas, in 1982.  George retired after 29 years at CNR, coming home to Grand Manan—his life-long dream, which was fulfilled in 2005.

Most of his life, George competed in target rifle competitions.  He attended the first Canadian Winter games in Quebec City in 1967, shooting in the .22 sporting rifle competition.  He attended the Small Bore Nationals at Kitchener, Ontario, in 1975 and 1976, taking 7 finals—the first time ever done.  He shot .308 target rifle at the Nationals in Ottawa for many years and won a position on the 1992 team from Canada to go to Bisley, England, for the World’s Competition.  George and Linda attended the Queen’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace while there.  George won numerous medals and trophies, including the Governor’s General’s medal for shooting.

Hunting was George’s second love, and he could often be seen with his wife, Linda, as they struck out on another deer hunting trip.  In his younger years, he spent much time on the Miramichi River fly fishing with his Dad.  George loved to teach young people gun safety and hunting skills.

Visiting will be held at Ells Funeral Home on Thursday, November, 9, 2017 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM. Funeral service will be held from St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Grand Harbour, on Friday November, 10, 2017 at 1:00pm.

George’s family have requested donation be made in his memory to the Grand Manan Boys and Girls Club, St. Paul’s Anglican Church, or to the donor’s choice.

Arrangements are in care of Ells Funeral Home Inc., 1199 Route 776, Grand Manan, NB E5G 1G2.  Condolences, messages of sympathy may also be sent to www.ells.ca or (506) 662-3116.