Williamson, Albert Arthur Alexander

Albert Arthur Alexander Williamson, lifetime resident of the Thunder Bay area, passed away with his children at his side on Saturday May 6th, 2006 at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre after a brief illness. Albert was born in Oliver Township on July 26th, 1920 and remained there for most of his life, on the property that the family had owned for 4 generations. He retired and moved to the city in 1990, first to Melon Street, then to Walkover Street where they made many close friends. In addition to running the family farm, Albert had worked in the grain elevators for many years, and then for the Board of Grain Commissioners for more than 25 years. Albert served overseas in the Forestry Corps-28 Company, for 3 years 11 months. Much of that time was spent in Northern Scotland where he met the love of his life Maisie. In the later part of the war he was sent to Europe and served time in France, Belgium, Holland and Germany. A few days after the end of the war, he married his young bride. After his discharge from the army at the rank of Lance Corporal, he returned to Canada and Maisie followed along with a trainload of other war brides several months later. Together they raised their family in the close-knit community of Murillo with many friends and relatives around them. They were actively involved in their children's school and sports activities. Albert was a devoted hockey coach for many years and spent much time at the outdoor rinks in Murillo and the area. Albert is survived by his brother Nelson (Agnes). He also leaves to mourn his children Joyce Perry of Thunder Bay, Brian Williamson (Cora) of Medicine Hat, Alberta, presently here, Connie Murdoch (Fraser), and Randy Williamson (Debbie). Also survived by his much loved 13 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Albert was predeceased by his parents William and Nellie (Mary Eleanor), his sister Mable, a granddaughter, infant Perry, and a great granddaughter Abby. On February 27th of this year, Albert lost the love of his life Maisie. After her passing, he often said that Maisie was another way to spell 'wonderful'. They would have celebrated 61 years of marriage on May 10th of this year and will be appropriately reunited on that day at Sunset Memorial Gardens. His family would like to thank the staff on 2B at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre for the exceptional, compassionate care he was given in his last 3 weeks. Also many thanks go to Dr. Stewart Kennedy who cared for both Maisie and Albert for many years. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Albert's memory to the Thunder Bay branch of the Autism Society, the Easter Seals Campaign, the SIDS Foundation or the charity of your choice. A celebration of Albert's life will be held at Jenkens Funeral Home on Syndicate Avenue on Wednesday, May 10th at 11:00 a.m. officiated by the Ven. Mark Conliffe. Visitation will be held at Jenkens Funeral Home on Tuesday May 9th, 2006 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. On line condolences at: www.jenkens-funeral.ca