George Durning

           George Herman Durning, 86, of New Glasgow, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 12, 2018, in the Palliative Care Unit of the Aberdeen Hospital.

            Born in Economy, he was the son of Fred Graham Durning and Ella May (Cavanagh) Durning. 

            George retired as the accountant for Maritime Steel, New Glasgow, in 1996 after 40 years with the company.

            He was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church since arriving in New Glasgow in 1954, where he served as elder for over 56 years and was active in all aspects of church music. 

            George was also a key member of the New Glasgow Lions Club, where he started his selfless contribution and dedication to seniors through his art of music which transcended the call of duty. His commitment was legendary.

            He started his musical support to others playing the pump organ in his home church in Economy at the age of 12.

            George performed at seniors’ facilities in and around Pictou County and across Northern Nova Scotia for close to 60 years. As a result of his selfless giving of his talents he was the recipient of many awards and recognitions, including the Governor General’s Caring Canadian award in 2003.

            He was involved with countless community choirs and musical events and participated in Pictou Rotary Musical productions for 13 years, until 2017.

            For over 50 years George’s involvement in the New Glasgow Music Festival included performing and accompanying singers and instrumentalists of all ages. Many in the county know him as "Grampy George" through his accompanying school choirs.

            His head was full of melodies and lyrics that resulted in thousands of original tunes, songs and poems. 

            He is survived by his children, sons: David (Lara), New Westminster, BC; Jamie (Phyllis), Halifax; Kevin (Cindy), Musquodoboit Harbour; and Ian (Gabrielle), Surrey, B.C.; daughters: Helen (Darrel) Snortland, Medicine Hat, Alberta; and Janice (Andrew) Alcorn, New Glasgow; 14 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren; brother, Jamie (Elizabeth), Truro. He was predeceased by his loving wife, Margaret, in 2010 and his sister, Ruth Fisher in 2011.

            Cremation has taken place under the direction of R.H. Porter Funeral Home, 55 Almont Ave., New Glasgow, where the family will receive visitors from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm on Wednesday, July 18. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, July 19 at 2 pm in the First Presbyterian Church, 208 McLean St., New Glasgow with Rev. Ken MacLeod and Rev. Bob Cruickshank officiating. Donations may be made to the Aberdeen Palliative Care Society, 835 East River Road, New Glasgow, NS, B2H 3S6; Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada, 50 Bedford Hwy, Suite 210, Halifax, NS, B3M OJ9; New Glasgow Music Festival, PO Box 671, New Glasgow, NS, B2H 5E7; or any other charity of your choice. 

 

We’ve been blessed in fullest measure

Happiness, a constant treasure.

You filled our lives with endless song

The music we will carry on.