George Griffin, aged 91, passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 12, 2026.
He will be lovingly remembered by his daughters, Louise Griffin and Gillian Trottier; his grandchildren, Kayleigh Trottier (Tim), Lindsay Trottier (Gab), Hayden Trottier (Hannah) and Camryn Trottier (Luke); and his cherished great-grandson, Lachlan Trottier.
Born in Edinburgh Scotland, the youngest of 11 children, all of whom predeceased him, George grew up surrounded by stories of his siblings’ travels and adventures. It was a tradition he proudly continued throughout his own life, always eager to explore the world and embrace new experiences.
George served in the British Navy and was a proud member of the Bilston Glen Pipe Band. A lifelong passion for music took him to remarkable places, including fulfilling his dream of performing at the world-famous Edinburgh Tattoo. In August 1976, he had the opportunity to play once again at the Canadian National Exhibition Scottish World Pipe Band Championship, creating another treasured memory in his musical journey.
A skilled tradesman from an early age, George began his apprenticeship as a welder at just 15 years old. His craftsmanship lives on in the wrought-iron railings that still adorn many older homes throughout Edinburgh, Scotland. He worked in the coal mines for many years before deciding that his future lay above ground. After much thought and searching, he set his sights on Canada.
In 1965, George and his family made the move to Canada for what was intended to be a two-year trial. They quickly fell in love with the land of opportunity, and in 1967, they made the move permanent, embracing Canada as their new home.
The family settled in Richmond Hill, where George became a member of the Masonic Lodge, taught drumming for the Lions Club Pipe Band and discovered a new passion: sailing.
George was a proud member of the Plumbers and Pipefitters Union Local 46 and the Whitby Yacht Club. He also became an original “Snowbird,” spending many winters in Florida. Never one to stay in one place for too long, George sailed his beloved boat, ITSALLMINETWO, along the Intracoastal Waterway from Lake Ontario to the Gulf of Mexico, spending a full year exploring the waterways. Eventually, he decided that having someone else captain the ship was a much easier way to travel! He went on to enjoy many years of cruising throughout the Caribbean and the Atlantic, along with countless memorable holidays back in Scotland.
Whether through music, travel, sailing or the many friendships he made along the way, George lived life with a spirit of adventure and a desire to see what lay beyond the horizon. His journey took him across oceans and into a new life in Canada, leaving behind a legacy of treasured memories for his family and all who knew him.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the entire team at Woods Park Care Home, and especially to Nurse Nicole, for their kindness, compassion and care, and for holding George’s hand as he peacefully left this world.
Fair winds and following seas, George. You’ve earned your rest.
Rose Ann Carmichael
Posted on: Thursday, October 22, 2026Uncle George, you were greatly loved, and will be greatly missed. Goodnight, sweet dreams, God Bless.
Dan Trottier
Posted on: Thursday, October 22, 2026I was proud to call George my father in law and friend.
He was an excellent grandfather to my children, they will attest to that.
Unfortunately, I only ever saw him once more after the divorce and it was at Hayden’s wedding.
I missed him as he was a part of my life for the best part of 25 years.
I hope he’s at peace now.
My deepest condolences to Gillian, Louise, Kayleigh, Lindsay, Hayden, and Camryn.