Memorials

Recently two of our members have died. Below is a note about each.

George Tapley

George served as branch Treasurer from 2011 to 2019. He was given a certificate of appreciation in October 2021. ( See Fall 2021 Newsletter). George was born in Fredericton, New Brunswick and moved to Calgary a few years after earning a MBA to work for the City. He retired in 2004. Over his years in Calgary he was heavily involved in the Masons and held a number of positions. His Loyalist ancestor was Henry Belyea, although he was not able to completely prove the connection due to lack of information on early generations. He died on January 1, 2022 and his obituary was in the Calgary Herald.

Shona Wards

Shona joined the Calgary Branch after 2010 and regularly attended meetings and helped where possible. She was instrumental in the placement of a plaque and burr oak on the Alberta Legislative grounds in Edmonton in 2007. The plaque was upgraded in 2010. Shona’s Loyalist ancestor was Daniel Keith from New Brunswick. Her certificate was obtained in 2001. She died on August 10, 2021. Her obituary was in the Edmonton Journal. A summary of her life is linked here.

Shona has left a number of Loyalist related articles, including clothing, material and books for anyone interested.