In this case, I would see George every Wednesday morning through the nineties at the aquatic centre when I was working in Ladner with an organization that supported people with various mental and physical challenges. It was Gerry, Russell and I with George and four of five of his friends in the spa talking about life and sharing lots of laughs.
It was a little clique-like initially, but as the weeks went on I could tell that George and his fellow European friends looked forward to seeing us. They had a million stories and a million opinions on every topic imaginable and would regale us as with colourful yarns as we rotated from the spa to the sauna, to the cold pool and back to the spa again…rinse. repeat.
The great thing about that job was that the primary mandate was to be out and about in the community breaking down barriers and stereotypes. George and his friends were tough nuts to crack but we all ended up getting along famously.
So when I checked out the local news today and I heard someone from my hometown had gone missing, I was wondering if I might know them. Sure enough I did. George had a rich colourful life full of travel and adventure and was lucky enough to spend his last day enjoying the great outdoors.
Missing Ladner man found dead
Body of George Safar found near Chilliwack Lake
An elderly Ladner man missing since Friday evening has been found dead in the Chilliwack Lake area.
Police say two hikers came across the body of 84-year old George Safar last night. RCMP confirmed the identity, and Delta police informed his family. Foul play is not suspected.
