George Duncan Hill passed away at Jackman Manor, Aldergrove, BC on February 21, 2017 in his 83rd year surrounded by his family.
Predeceased by his beloved wife (Eileen) in 2012, he was a caring father to his children Nadine (Bruce) Elson of Estevan, SK, Sandra (John) Graham and David (Mariann) both of Langley, BC. He was a proud “Papa” to Monica and Dominic Elson, Molly and Keara Graham, Liam and Erik Hill along with great-grandchildren, Iris, Lily and Ciarán Elson. He is also survived by two sisters, Ethel (Ed) Campbell and Ruth Hill, both of Langley, BC. He was predeceased by his sisters Margaret Jessop and Bess Murphy, and by his brother Jim Hill.
George was born in Star City, Saskatchewan, the youngest child of George and Isabella Hill. He attended school in Star City and it was there that he met the love of his life, Eileen Clarke, whom he married in 1957. He attended the University of Saskatchewan. It was at university that he first became interested in politics, a passion that endured until he suffered a stroke in June 2016. He loved nothing better than a good political argument and there was no doubt where his political affiliations lay. There are few people that have not been privy to his opinions, thoughts and life lessons!
George practiced law in Estevan, SK from 1958 to 1984 with a practice spanning the southeast corner of the province. He was an active member of the Estevan community through his involvement in many things including St. Giles Anglican Church, Order of the Eastern Star, and the Shrine club. He was an honourary life member of the Masonic Lodge. He was involved in a number of business enterprises in Estevan and area and was a key supporter of the new hospital. During his career, George was elected President of the Conservative Party of Saskatchewan (1977), was Chancellor of the Anglican Diocese of Qu’Appelle, was a board member of the Law Foundation of Saskatchewan (1978-1985) and was Chair of the Board of SaskPower (1982-1985).
In 1985, George was named a Justice of the Court of Queen’s Bench. After resigning when realizing the job wasn’t what he had envisioned, he became President of the Souris Basin Development Authority and under his direction, the Rafferty and Alameda Dams in Estevan and area was constructed. In 1987, when he became the President and CEO of SaskPower, he was one of the architects of economic development within the province through implementation of “Buy Saskatchewan” programs, construction of power plants, expansion of natural gas distribution systems to rural areas and improvement of the electrical system. If companies wanted to do business with SaskPower, they had to demonstrate how the people of the province would benefit.
In a move towards retirement, George took a position with SRI Homes in Kelowna, BC. When retired, Eileen and George enjoyed travelling and entertaining, hosting many events and dinners. George was the consummate host, entertaining those around him with tales, often with an embellishment or two! Kelowna was home until Eileen passed away. He moved to Langley in 2013 and took great delight in entertaining fellow residents at Langley Gardens. He also continued to excel in cribbage, a skill none of us has ever been able to replicate! He moved to Jackman Manor in September 2016.
Known for his humour, generosity and kindness, George was a friend and an inspiration to many. A memorial service to celebrate and honour his life will be held at the Anglican Cathedral of St. Michael’s and All Angels, 608 Sutherland Ave. Kelowna on May 20, 2017 at 2 p.m. Reception to follow. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or to the Saskatchewan Science Centre, Regina.
Condolences may be offered to the family at gdhill.condolences@gmail.com
