George Ramsay Merchant

GEORGE RAMSAY MERCHANT of Sarnia, Ontario passed away on September 29, 2016 with his wife Jane and dear friend Dr. William Doyle at his side.  He is survived by his children Wendy, Moray, Steve, Fern, Kathryn, Anna and their children. He was predeceased by his sister Muriel Bryan.  George's life began in Scotland in 1928 where he started work at 14. He served in the British Army, was a police officer in Dundee, Scotland and a licensed electrician.  He came to Canada 60 years ago and was employed the day he arrived in Toronto.  After visiting his cousin, Harry Merchant, in Bright's Grove, he moved to Sarnia and worked at Polysar for several years. The dress code did not appeal to him (no suits allowed) and eventually he left and found his true passion with London Life Insurance Company--a company he was very proud to have represented for almost 55 years.  He had a very distinguished career--top producer, product innovator, motivational speaker and lifetime member of the prestigious MDRT.  He enjoyed mentoring young people and always found the time to share an idea, offer encouragement or work with them in the field.  Long lasting friendships were made and he earned the respect not only of his peers within London Life but within the entire insurance industry. That being said, his true joy was his relationship with each and every one of his clients.  Adding value to their lives gave him purpose and that privilege extended until the very last day of his life--exactly as he would have scripted.  Nothing was ever too much for George and each day he tried to brighten someone's day with a simple act of kindness or a bit of humour.  Young clients were delighted with his hand drawn birthday cards of stick people with loonies for their eyes!

George had a real zest for life.  He loved golf.  He was a pitiful driver but he could really finesse the greens.  He coveted a motorcycle for his 75th birthday but had to bend to the wishes of his family and settle on a Mazda Miata.  He was humorous.  He enjoyed writing poetry and sketching.  He was an incredibly proud Canadian.   His enthusiasm and optimism were contagious.  He loved with an open heart.  He was a true gentleman.

A gathering to honour George will be held at the Holiday Inn, 1498 Venetian Blvd. Point Edward, Thursday, October 6th from 3-5 pm.

In the spirit of Thanksgiving and George's generosity, memorial donations would be appreciated at the Salvation Army, the Inn of the Good Shepherd or your local food bank.