Walter Alexander WILLIAMSON

WILLIAMSON, Walter Alexander Feb 15, 1913 Nov 21, 2008 Passed away comfortably and peacefully in Victoria. Walter grew up in a busy Winnipeg household with six older siblings and lots of extended family and friends. He loved family gatherings and always enjoyed the good company and plentiful food. He had a wellknown fondness for all-you-can-eat-buffets, especially those with hot and sour soup. He graduated from University of Manitoba with a B.Sc. in Agriculture. He was a radio operator with the RCAF in WW2. After the war, he worked as a chemist for Canada Malting Company in Montreal, Winnipeg, Churchill and other Canadian cities, and as Head Maltster in Calgary. He finished his career in Winnipeg and retired to Victoria in 1968 to join several of his siblings, and to enjoy the extra months of gardening time that he so loved. The Williamson siblings were close and this little brother was the glue that held them together. He phoned his Victoria siblings and siblings-in-law every evening (but not during Jeopardy!) to make sure they were well and safe. This role extended through the years as he kept in touch with his nieces and nephews and was the hub for sharing family news with the next generations of the clan. Walter was a very caring, much-loved gentleman with many interests and talents. A great lover of music, he and a friend volunteered for years as ushers for the Calgary Philharmonic so that they could attend concerts galore. Besides being a gardener extraordinaire who generously shared his flowers, produce and knowledge, he played piano and organ, carved and turned wooden bowls and plates, did fine needle-point pictures and cushion covers, and made wine. He worked hard and believed in sharing his resulting good fortune with many local churches and charities supporting music, education and those lessfortunate. He travelled to Britain, Europe and throughout Canada and USA. When air travel no longer appealed, he enjoyed bus tours" using his BC Transit pass to explore Greater Victoria. Walter was proud to be honoured with a Lifetime Membership by the YMCA-YWCA of Victoria, and was an active member at the Y" for more than 85 years. He had many friends among the staff and members, young and old, and will be greatly missed. Walter is the last of seven siblings and is survived by eight nieces and nephews and their families in Canada and USA. He also leaves behind wonderful, cherished neighbours and friends in Victoria. No service by Walter's request. His ashes will be buried at the family gravesite at Elmwood Cemetery in Winnipeg. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the charity of your choice. Uncle Walter, we will remember you as the funny, kind, loving person that you were and treasure those memories foreverhow lucky we were to have had you in our lives. Condolences may be made through www.fmfsfort@telus.net 514369 Published in the Victoria Times-Colonist on 11/26/2008