Obituary of George Loewen

In Loving Memory of George Loewen

(June 6, 1936- April 30, 2025)

It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness that we announce the passing of George Loewen on the morning of Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at Linhaven Long Term Care Home. He was 88 years old, just six weeks shy of his 89th birthday. George is survived by his beloved wife, Lenna Loewen; his children Dawn, Gabriella, Christina (Aris), and Adrian; his brother Bernhard (Joyce); and his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

George was born on June 6, 1936, in Chortitza, a Mennonite settlement in Russian Ukraine. His early childhood was shaped by the upheavals of World War II, causing George and his family to flee westward with thousands of other Mennonites, eventually emigrating to Canada on January 12, 1948, with his mother, brother, and grandparents, and settling in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

In his late twenties, George joined Canada’s External Aid Office working in Belize, where he contributed to international development efforts and road building. Here, he met and married Lenna, who joined him soon after in Canada, beginning their family and a long and loving partnership.

George was a rare intellect and artistic talent. He loved to talk, teach and share his vast knowledge on a wide range of topics—from history, music, art and philosophy —and did so with impeccable accuracy. His formidable memory and recall made him a compelling presence in any conversation. His oil paintings, watercolours, and pastels captured both emotion and atmosphere. He was a lifelong aficionado of classical music and opera with a vast and unrivalled collection of music that was second only to his impressive library. Professionally, George was a respected Ontario Land Surveyor and served for many years as Technical Services Supervisor for the City of St. Catharines, where he was known for his precision, detail, and principled leadership.

Above all, George was a beloved husband, father, brother and friend. He will be dearly missed.

All are welcome to a celebration of George’s life to take place at GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL HOME, 585 Carlton St., St. Catharines, on Sunday, May 11, 2025. Cremation has taken place, and guests are welcome to gather between 11:15am and 12:00pm, with a Celebration of Life beginning at 12:00pm, followed by light refreshments.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making a donation in memory of George to a favourite charity based on your mutual shared interests.