We regret to advise of the death of George William Collins of Ottawa ON at the Ottawa Hospital on 8 April 2021 at the age of 87.
George grew up and went to primary school in New Edinburgh (Ottawa) followed by attendance at Ottawa Tech High School. He attended Carleton College (University) with the Regular Officer Training Plan and graduated in 1957 with Honours in Chemistry. In university, George was active in hockey and football.
George spent his summers on officer training at the Royal Canadian School of Military Engineering in Chilliwack BC. After a short career with the Royal Canadian Engineers, George worked for Shell Oil in Toronto before a career shift and his attending Teacher’s College. He first taught chemistry in Chesterville ON and at Ottawa Tech and then became Vice Principal at Ottawa Tech, Rideau, Hillcrest and Highland Park high schools. During this time, George earned his Master’s degree in Education at the University of Ottawa and then earned an Advanced Diploma at the University of London, UK. George retired from teaching in 1991.
George loved sports including hockey, football, cricket, cross country skiing in the Gatineau and he was a long- term member of the Recreational Association. George was inducted into the National Capital Old Timers Hall of Fame for establishing and running the Ottawa Tech Teachers Hockey team from 1973 to 2007. George believed in reaching goals through dedication, hard work, discipline, and service. He was a mentor, coach and partner to many, particularly to his children and students.
A funeral service will be held on 19 April 2021 at 1:00pm at Hulse, Playfair and McGarry (Central Chapel) by invitation due to COVID restrictions. For those wishing, the service will be live-streamed on 19 April at 1:00pm (EST). The live stream can be accessed through the funeral home website.
Donations can be made to the Dementia Society of Ottawa and Renfrew County, Abbotsford House Seniors Center or a charity of your choice. Online condolences can be sent to the funeral home.
