Obituary of George Thomas Brunton
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BRUNTON, George Thomas, Supt. (Ret.)
Peacefully passed away at University Hospital on Monday, December 11, 2023, in his 90th year. George was the beloved husband, for 57 years, of the late Kathleen (nee Costello) (2018) and loving father of Celine (Bill) Irving, Joanne, Mary Catherine (Robert) Arkle, the late Gina (Gary) McIntosh and George III. He will be sadly missed by his grandchildren Kathleen, Theresa (Dylan) and Bridget Irving; James, Madeline (Sam), Kateri, Angeline (Craig) and Blaise Arkle, and Declan McIntosh, and great-grandchildren Louise Kay, Rose and Arthur George (6 days old). George was the son of the late George Vincent and Mary Brunton (Mast). He is predeceased by his brother Edward (2015).
George always expressed pride in his birthplace of Guelph, Ontario, “in the shadow of the Church of Our Lady”, where the foundation of his life devoted to faith, family, friends, and service to the community, was formed. From early childhood, George showed a talent for making and maintaining friendships. Through his efforts, The Notre Dame Boys Club (established in primary school), was still meeting regularly. He enthusiastically organized and attended reunions of family, friends and organizations.
George was a man of integrity. He had a reassuring presence. With his words and deeds, George promoted peace and justice in all aspects of life. His quiet acts of kindness were often focused on those whose needs may have otherwise gone unnoticed.
George had a warm sense of humour. He took pleasure in well-placed puns, expertly executed pranks, wearing elaborate costumes and sharing incredible stories. One of his favourite places was the verandah of our home; where he would rest and reflect, greet neighbours and host visitors over the past 63 years. He loved parades and picnics, rousing band music and a wide variety of entertainment.
George’s service with the Militia's Military Police led him to join the London Police Force at the age of 21. Through his distinguished 37 year career, he rose through the ranks, retiring as Superintendent. During his tenure, he was active in the London Police Association, liaison for the Police pipe band, an executive of the John Howard Society, involved with the London Family Court Clinic, and worked closely with the Urban Alliance. He was selected to participate in an exchange programme with Scotland Yard and was a graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia.
While navigating the logistics of being a supportive father of five, professional duties as a detective, and his many community commitments; George studied as a mature student and graduated from Western University in 1975. Kay and the kids proudly attended his Convocation. He was an advocate of lifelong learning, which he successfully instilled in all his children and grandchildren.
True to his conviction to the service of others, George dedicated his time and energy to the Knights of Columbus, St. Vincent de Paul Society, as a senator with the Jaycees, (with special involvement in the Santa Claus Parade), and serving as past president of the Irish Benevolent Society.
Throughout his life, George was blessed with a profound sense of wonder and a contemplative nature. He considered himself fortunate to travel the world with family and friends, engaging in unique adventures and experiences. He cherished opportunities to create moments of joy in the hearts of all.
George led a rich and full life, kept the faith, and has earned Eternal Rest and Peace.
Thank you to those who provided wonderful care at University Hospital and the V.O.N. Special thanks to Father Mike Traher for his loving pastoral support.
Visitors will be received at the John T. Donohue Funeral Home, 362 Waterloo Street at King Street, on Sunday, December 17 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm. Prayers will be held Sunday afternoon at 3:30pm. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Peter's Cathedral Basilica, 196 Dufferin Avenue, on Monday, December 18 at 10am. Interment in St. Peter's Cemetery. Donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the St. Vincent de Paul Society c/o St. Peter's Cathedral Basilica.
