Stock, George E. (Died)

On December 14, 2022, George Elwood Stock, in his 74th year, passed away peacefully at Sakura House with family at his side. Cherished father to Laura Stafford, Gordon Stock (Meghan), and Jennifer Stock (Ryan). Loving grandfather to Quinn Stafford, Mikayla Stafford and Caiden Ouellette. Predeceased by parents Fred and Lillian (n. Howell) Stock and survived by brother Robert (Evelyn) Stock. George and Heather (n. McEwen) celebrated 50 years of marriage in 2022.

George lived most of his life on the Stock family homestead on the 16th line near Tavistock. Time away was spent earning degrees from the University of Guelph, and working for government agriculture programs, first in Alberta and then Saskatchewan, before returning to the farm in 1979. George always spoke fondly of their time in Western Canada.

George and Heather began building a dairy herd in the early 1980's, milking cows until 1998. He was involved in several agricultural organizations, including the Oxford County Federation of Agriculture, and he chaired the former Ontario Cream Producers' Marketing Board. George prided himself on working to better the industry and building partnerships (and friendships) with neighbours to share farm equipment and tackle some of the more challenging farming tasks.

When the farm scaled back, George had a career that directed his energy to providing service to others. This included roles at the Canadian Mental Health Association in Woodstock, Huron-Perth District Health Council, Oxford County Library, and Community Living Stratford & Area. George also spent time volunteering with Telecare and Rotary. In retirement, George built up his business of buying and selling farm toys and collectibles.

George enjoyed many hobbies. He had an eye for landscape photography and liked to capture memories of family gatherings. He enjoyed watching for the heron that resided at the 'twin bridges' south of Cassel. He always appreciated a good bargain, whether for resale or to fill a gap in one of his many collections. Road trips were spent seeking garage sales, antique stores, and flea markets, and avoiding taking the same road twice. He valued friendships through his farm toy business and got a kick out of finding that 'special piece' for customers. Although not a hobby per se, George loved to tell a good story and share a joke and was a master at puns.

Above all, George treasured his family. He always strived to connect and support his children and found joy in being a grandfather. George loved to mark special occasions for Heather, including always finding a meaningful way to mark their engagement anniversary.

George will be greatly missed by his family and in the many communities he touched during his life. A celebration of life will be planned at a future time where all will be welcome to share in fellowship to remember George's life.

If desired, donations to the following organizations that George strongly believed in and supported would be welcome. The Mennonite Central Committee, Community Living Stratford & Area, the Tavistock Assistance Program or V.O.N. Sakura House would be appreciated and may be arranged through the Francis Funeral Home, Tavistock, 519-655-2431. Personal condolences can be posted at www.francisfh.ca