Tenth Generation (Continued)
Family of Melissa Gertrude McDONALD (839) & Arthur Wellington MACDOWELL
1378. Arthur Eric* MACDOWELL (Melissa Gertrude McDONALD9, Dorcas Ann BOUNDY8, Maria CORNISH7, Samuel6, Mary ADAMS5, John4, Mary NEALE3, John2, Bennett1). Born on 29 Jun 1902 in Summerside, PEI, Canada. Arthur Eric* died in Calgary, AB, Canada, on 16 Oct 1988; he was 86. Buried in Calgary, AB, Canada.
Notes from Laing MacDowell:
> Graduated Sumerside High School Left Summerside in 1928 to work at the harvest in Alberta (where there were relatives).
> Obtained work in a mens clothing store and after the 1929 Depression continued with them for many years.
> In 1950 started his own Mens Clothing store and did exceptionally well. Finally closed the store and retired.
> Member Renfrew Masonic Lodge & St. Matthews United Church in Calgary.
> My oldest brother Eric left home in 1928 to go West on the “Harves Excursiions”. Times were good then and western crops abundant. He had lots of work until the Depression of ‘29 when he was forced to accept a low-paid job with Williams Brothers as a clerk in a Mens Wear store. He stayed with them (what else was there?) as he was married and had 2 children. Started a house but did not have enough money to put up the walls so had to live in the basement for years. Eventually they were able to finish it.
> When he was over 50 years of age, on the advice of many of his customers who were mostly cowboys, he started MacDowell’s Mens wear near the Saddledome with the help of his wife who did the alterations and indeed had more drive than Eric. They sold mostly cowboy equipment, boots, hats, etc. I saw a picture or two of the store but never knew anyone who had seen it. Last week [Nov 2006] the daughter of a resdient here [ON] visited from Kelowna BC and in a conversation she told me that she had bought her boots and hat at their store and remembered it well! Eric died before 1980 and the store was closed.
Notes from Laing MacDowell:
> Graduated Sumerside High School Left Summerside in 1928 to work at the harvest in Alberta (where there were relatives).
> Obtained work in a mens clothing store and after the 1929 Depression continued with them for many years.
> In 1950 started his own Mens Clothing store and did exceptionally well. Finally closed the store and retired.
> Member Renfrew Masonic Lodge & St. Matthews United Church in Calgary.
> My oldest brother Eric left home in 1928 to go West on the “Harves Excursiions”. Times were good then and western crops abundant. He had lots of work until the Depression of ‘29 when he was forced to accept a low-paid job with Williams Brothers as a clerk in a Mens Wear store. He stayed with them (what else was there?) as he was married and had 2 children. Started a house but did not have enough money to put up the walls so had to live in the basement for years. Eventually they were able to finish it.
> When he was over 50 years of age, on the advice of many of his customers who were mostly cowboys, he started MacDowell’s Mens wear near the Saddledome with the help of his wife who did the alterations and indeed had more drive than Eric. They sold mostly cowboy equipment, boots, hats, etc. I saw a picture or two of the store but never knew anyone who had seen it. Last week [Nov 2006] the daughter of a resdient here [ON] visited from Kelowna BC and in a conversation she told me that she had bought her boots and hat at their store and remembered it well! Eric died before 1980 and the store was closed.
On 28 Feb 1940 when Arthur Eric* was 37, he married Ethel Ilene* LESLIE in Calgary, AB, Canada. Ethel Ilene* died on 26 Sep 1993. Religion: P.
Notes from Laing MacDowell:
- Daughter of J. Solomon Leslie and Elizabeth Wylie
Notes from Laing MacDowell:
- Daughter of J. Solomon Leslie and Elizabeth Wylie
They had the following children:
i.
(Living)
ii.
(Living)
1379. Bertha Lillian* “Jim” MACDOWELL (Melissa Gertrude McDONALD9, Dorcas Ann BOUNDY8, Maria CORNISH7, Samuel6, Mary ADAMS5, John4, Mary NEALE3, John2, Bennett1). Born on 7 Dec 1904 in Summerside, PEI, Canada. Bertha Lillian* “Jim” died in Tampa, FL, USA, on 17 Nov 1970; she was 65.
Notes from Laing MacDowell:
> Banker and Secretary
> After High School took a business course and worked as a Secretary for Ernest Strong in Summerside for about 3 or 4 years
> Visited Boston in 1925. Applied for visa to work there in Feb 1926.
> Entered the USA on Mar 1, 1926 at Vanceborough, Maine. She worked in Bank and husband was a mechanic. They also ran a store.
> He had a brain operation (c1935-1937) by Dr. Penfield in Montreal
- My sister, Lillian (born 1905) was married to Ray Schurman. She worked as a secretary for many areas before moving to Boston where she worked in a bank for many years.
Her husband had a brain operation I had a siver plate put in his head so had to go to a warm climate. They lived in Florida the rest of their lives.
Notes from Laing MacDowell:
> Banker and Secretary
> After High School took a business course and worked as a Secretary for Ernest Strong in Summerside for about 3 or 4 years
> Visited Boston in 1925. Applied for visa to work there in Feb 1926.
> Entered the USA on Mar 1, 1926 at Vanceborough, Maine. She worked in Bank and husband was a mechanic. They also ran a store.
> He had a brain operation (c1935-1937) by Dr. Penfield in Montreal
- My sister, Lillian (born 1905) was married to Ray Schurman. She worked as a secretary for many areas before moving to Boston where she worked in a bank for many years.
Her husband had a brain operation I had a siver plate put in his head so had to go to a warm climate. They lived in Florida the rest of their lives.
On 24 Mar 1930 when Bertha Lillian* “Jim” was 25, she married Charles Raymond* SCHURMAN in Boston, MA. Born on 6 Apr 1899 in Sherbrook, PEI, Canada. Charles Raymond* died in Tampa, FL, USA, on 1 Nov 1969; he was 70.
Notes from Laing MacDowell:
> Son of Gordon Robert Schurman (1869-1906) and Ella May Clark (1877-1945)
> Mechanic
> He was born a son of Gordon Robert Schurman a son of William, a son of Squire William a son of William (known as The Loyalist) a well known family of Summerside, PEI.
> Ray left the Island about 1915 to work in the Canadian West. He later found work in Maine, N.B. and Massachussetts.
> Married twice: 1) Charlotte Eleanor Allen m 19 July 1919 (they had one child), 2) Bertha Lillian* “Jim” MacDowell, m 24 Mar 1930
> Jim & Ray lived in the Boston, Newton, Wellesley Hills Mass. areas until he had brain surgery by Dr. Penfield of Montreal and had to move to a warmer climate becaue of the metal plate in his head. He could not work for a year and Jim continued to work to support the family.
> They bought a house in Tampa, Fl. (406 W. Violet St.) and Ray opened a small garage but went out of business. His condition was reported yearly to Dr. Penfield.
> He died of emphysema and his body was donated to science at University of Florida. Jims body was similarly donated.
Notes from Laing MacDowell:
> Son of Gordon Robert Schurman (1869-1906) and Ella May Clark (1877-1945)
> Mechanic
> He was born a son of Gordon Robert Schurman a son of William, a son of Squire William a son of William (known as The Loyalist) a well known family of Summerside, PEI.
> Ray left the Island about 1915 to work in the Canadian West. He later found work in Maine, N.B. and Massachussetts.
> Married twice: 1) Charlotte Eleanor Allen m 19 July 1919 (they had one child), 2) Bertha Lillian* “Jim” MacDowell, m 24 Mar 1930
> Jim & Ray lived in the Boston, Newton, Wellesley Hills Mass. areas until he had brain surgery by Dr. Penfield of Montreal and had to move to a warmer climate becaue of the metal plate in his head. He could not work for a year and Jim continued to work to support the family.
> They bought a house in Tampa, Fl. (406 W. Violet St.) and Ray opened a small garage but went out of business. His condition was reported yearly to Dr. Penfield.
> He died of emphysema and his body was donated to science at University of Florida. Jims body was similarly donated.
1380. Gertrude Pearl “Bill” MACDOWELL (Melissa Gertrude McDONALD9, Dorcas Ann BOUNDY8, Maria CORNISH7, Samuel6, Mary ADAMS5, John4, Mary NEALE3, John2, Bennett1). Born on 11 Mar 1910 in Summerside, PEI, Canada. Gertrude Pearl “Bill” died in Toronto, ON, Canada, on 19 Feb 1998; she was 87. Buried on 13 Jun 1998 in Smith Falls, ON, Canada.
Notes from Laing MacDowell:
> Loved horses and had her own horse “Sally” which she rode constantly. The family horse “Nell” was also a favourite with all the family.
> Secretary Stewart & Lewis Law Office In Summerside1927-32
> Joined Canadian Patent Office Ottawa, Dec. 1932 and Canadian Pension Commission (DVA) 1942 Board of Transport Commissioners 1951-52
> Moved to Toronto in 1952. Was Secretary Public Trustees Office Osgood Hall Toronto 1953. 1953-64 Current Publications Co. as secy. to the President and Editorial Secy. of Modern Medicine of Canada & Oral Health. Medical Secretary Queen St. Mental Health 1965-76 Secretary to the Director of Research & Hospital Administrator.
> Retired 1976 Volunteer Queen St. Mental Health 1976-1989
> Gerry died Nov. 22/83 & she established a bursary at Bishops in his name. She also established two scholarships in Summerside in honor of her parents.
Notes from Laing MacDowell:
> Loved horses and had her own horse “Sally” which she rode constantly. The family horse “Nell” was also a favourite with all the family.
> Secretary Stewart & Lewis Law Office In Summerside1927-32
> Joined Canadian Patent Office Ottawa, Dec. 1932 and Canadian Pension Commission (DVA) 1942 Board of Transport Commissioners 1951-52
> Moved to Toronto in 1952. Was Secretary Public Trustees Office Osgood Hall Toronto 1953. 1953-64 Current Publications Co. as secy. to the President and Editorial Secy. of Modern Medicine of Canada & Oral Health. Medical Secretary Queen St. Mental Health 1965-76 Secretary to the Director of Research & Hospital Administrator.
> Retired 1976 Volunteer Queen St. Mental Health 1976-1989
> Gerry died Nov. 22/83 & she established a bursary at Bishops in his name. She also established two scholarships in Summerside in honor of her parents.
On 30 Aug 1952 when Gertrude Pearl “Bill” was 42, she married Gerald Ellison “Gerry” MALLARD in Agincourt, Toronto, ON, Canada. Born on 26 Dec 1916 in Smith Falls, ON, Canada. Gerald Ellison “Gerry” died on 22 Nov 1983; he was 66.
Notes from Laing MacDowell:
> Son of John Wallis Mallard and ? Bradley
> BA in Church History and a Masters Degree in Canadian History From Bishops University In Lennoxville P.Q.
> Studied at Bishops College in Quebec and intended to go throough for the Ministry. Enlisted in the Army and served throughout the war in all areas including Europe.
> Worked for the Gov’t of Canada and served with the Pension Dept and others.
> A devout Anglican and supporter fo the Church of England, a member of St. Cuthbert’s Church in Toronto.
> He coached the Peewee division of that church and they were Metro Champs in 1967/68.
Notes from Laing MacDowell:
> Son of John Wallis Mallard and ? Bradley
> BA in Church History and a Masters Degree in Canadian History From Bishops University In Lennoxville P.Q.
> Studied at Bishops College in Quebec and intended to go throough for the Ministry. Enlisted in the Army and served throughout the war in all areas including Europe.
> Worked for the Gov’t of Canada and served with the Pension Dept and others.
> A devout Anglican and supporter fo the Church of England, a member of St. Cuthbert’s Church in Toronto.
> He coached the Peewee division of that church and they were Metro Champs in 1967/68.
1381. George Ferno MACDOWELL (Melissa Gertrude McDONALD9, Dorcas Ann BOUNDY8, Maria CORNISH7, Samuel6, Mary ADAMS5, John4, Mary NEALE3, John2, Bennett1). Born on 19 Nov 1913 in Summerside, PEI, Canada. George Ferno died in Brandon, Manitoba, Canada, on 26 Feb 1986; he was 72.
Notes from Laing MacDowell:
> Summerside High School and Prince of Wales College.
> Canadian Army R.C.C.S 1939-1945
> B.A. Dalhousie University. M.A. (Economics) Clark College,Worcester Mass. Graduated (B.A.) Dalhousie University, Halifax, N.S.. May 13/47; Clark College,Worcester Mass M.A. (Economics) .
> Taught Economics in Mount Allison University Sackville N.B.
> Taught in University of Alberta Edmonton Alberta.
> Professor and Head of Department of Economics University of Brandon, Manitoba.
> Author of "The Brandon Strike"" and others.
> President and Chairman of MacKenzie Seed Co.
> Retired in Brandon. Never married. Left estate of over $300,000. to the University of Brandon including Library, bursaries, building fund etc.
-George who was very short. Not much over 5 feet!. He was a premature baby and never grew but was as strong as an ox. And smart too! He entered Dalhousie University at age 14 and, as you know, eventually became a Professor at Edmonton and Brandon. He played hockey for Dalhousie and when they had the team picture taken he was standing behind the goalie (with big pads) and was on a large dictionary and was still shorter than all the rest!
Notes from Laing MacDowell:
> Summerside High School and Prince of Wales College.
> Canadian Army R.C.C.S 1939-1945
> B.A. Dalhousie University. M.A. (Economics) Clark College,Worcester Mass. Graduated (B.A.) Dalhousie University, Halifax, N.S.. May 13/47; Clark College,Worcester Mass M.A. (Economics) .
> Taught Economics in Mount Allison University Sackville N.B.
> Taught in University of Alberta Edmonton Alberta.
> Professor and Head of Department of Economics University of Brandon, Manitoba.
> Author of "The Brandon Strike"" and others.
> President and Chairman of MacKenzie Seed Co.
> Retired in Brandon. Never married. Left estate of over $300,000. to the University of Brandon including Library, bursaries, building fund etc.
-George who was very short. Not much over 5 feet!. He was a premature baby and never grew but was as strong as an ox. And smart too! He entered Dalhousie University at age 14 and, as you know, eventually became a Professor at Edmonton and Brandon. He played hockey for Dalhousie and when they had the team picture taken he was standing behind the goalie (with big pads) and was on a large dictionary and was still shorter than all the rest!
1382. Davida Jean* MACDOWELL (Melissa Gertrude McDONALD9, Dorcas Ann BOUNDY8, Maria CORNISH7, Samuel6, Mary ADAMS5, John4, Mary NEALE3, John2, Bennett1). Born on 16 Jul 1918 in Summerside, PEI, Canada. Davida Jean* died on 24 Jun 1974; she was 55.
Notes from Laing MacDowell:
> Graduated from Summerside High School and went to Ottawa Civic Hospital to train as a nurse.
> She became quite ill and had to return home. For nearly a year she was more or less confined to bed.
> She started a two year Secretarial course and graduated. Just before the war she wrote the exams for the Civil Service. When war started she went to Ottawa to work at the Department of where she met her future husband.
> She started to work for an Insurance Company and was promoted to be Office Manager. She stayed with this firm until she got cancer and died.
Notes from Laing MacDowell:
> Graduated from Summerside High School and went to Ottawa Civic Hospital to train as a nurse.
> She became quite ill and had to return home. For nearly a year she was more or less confined to bed.
> She started a two year Secretarial course and graduated. Just before the war she wrote the exams for the Civil Service. When war started she went to Ottawa to work at the Department of where she met her future husband.
> She started to work for an Insurance Company and was promoted to be Office Manager. She stayed with this firm until she got cancer and died.
On 1 Jan 1948 when Davida Jean* was 29, she married William Howard* COLEMAN in Ottawa, ON, Canada. Born on 6 Jun 1914. William Howard* died in 1991; he was 76.
Notes from Laing MacDowell:
> Son of Col. William Edgar Lawrence Coleman and Della Wilkinson
> Service in Canadian Army Driver
> Occupation: Computing Devices, Ottawa, ON
Notes from Laing MacDowell:
> Son of Col. William Edgar Lawrence Coleman and Della Wilkinson
> Service in Canadian Army Driver
> Occupation: Computing Devices, Ottawa, ON
They had the following children:
i.
(Living)
ii.
(Living)
iii.
Lawrence Arthur “Laurie” COLEMAN
1383. Charles Laing* MACDOWELL (Melissa Gertrude McDONALD9, Dorcas Ann BOUNDY8, Maria CORNISH7, Samuel6, Mary ADAMS5, John4, Mary NEALE3, John2, Bennett1) 
. Born on 4 Nov 1920 in Summerside, PEI, Canada. Charles Laing* died in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, on 25 Jun 2010; he was 89. Occupation: Banker. Education: High School. Religion: P.
Notes from Laing MacDowell:
> Attended Summerside High School and was an avid Boy Scout.
> Parents had a small acerage and grew considerable produce. Raised horses, cows, foxes, mink, poultry etc. Skating, dancing and horseback riding were favourite sports. Family had a brood mare and raised some racing stock of which Hisox was a prominent winner.
> Worked in Summerside P.E.I. for The Bank of Nova Scotia from May 10, 1937 until Jan 2 ,1940 when transferred to Jacquet River N.B. then in Sept. 1940 to New Richmond on the Gaspe Coast. In Mar 1941 transferred to River Hebert N.S
> and enlisted in the Canadian Army in July 1942. After training in Charlottetown, Halifax, Bedford and Dartmouth was sent as Officer material to Petawawa where further training was given in Field Artillery. Due to a miscount they discovered they had too many officers and most of the trainees agreed to go overseas. In Dec. 1944 arrived in Camp Borden England. Was stationed in several other camps until Jan 1946 when he returned home and married.
> Returned to the Bank and lived in Summerside, Sault Ste..Marie, Fort William,. St. Thomas, Scarborough and New Toronto. Worked in Head Office 1964-1967 as Administrator of Ontario Branches (excluding Toronto) Also worked in Scotia Mortgage Corp. from 1978 to 1980.
> Retired on Nov. 30 1980. Bought a Macintosh computer and worked as an Administrator of Streetsville Glen Golf Course until it was sold in May 1990. Acted as a financial consultant and prepared Income tax reports as well as being an Officer and/or Director of several organizations.
> Joined Hiram & Lebanon Lodge # 3 A.F. & A.M. on Nov. 10, 1947 and Mimico Chapter R.A.M. # 215 G.R.C.
Updated Autobiography from Laing:
Born Nov. 4, 1920 at Summerside, P.E.I. the last of 6 children. Parents owned 15 acres of land they used as a small farm or Market Garden. Kept 5 or 6 cows, about 150 chickens, dozens of rabbits, 2 or 3 horses, 50-150 foxes, mink and grew vegetables of all kinds. I remember having 30 girls paid to pick strawberries one year! In addition to the 15 acres, their large home and barn were located on Poplar Ave. at the edge of town on a one acre lot where a large garden was also maintained.
Had a very healthy youth and, in addition to many farm chores, including feeding the animals, planting and gathering the crops cleaning the barn and chicken house, gathering eggs, , shoveling coal and snow, storing firewood when needed and generally helping with "farm" duties participated in many sports. These included particularly baseball, hockey, badminton, horseback riding, bicycling, camping with Boy Scouts and lots of skating.
As a result of a fall from a tree at age 9 or 10 broke the right arm near the wrist and, in the Spring of 1936 had a serious month of pleurisy of the left lung which left scar tissue.
Attended Summerside High School for eleven years and joined the Bank of Nova Scotia on May 10, 1937. Was transferred to Jacquet River N.B. in January 1940 and to New Richmond P. Q. in Sept. In March 1941 had a minor operation in Halifax. In June was transferred to River Hebert N.S.
Enlisted in the Canadian Army in July 1942 and took basic training in Charlottetown then was transferred to the Pay Corps in Halifax for 6 months.
Joined the 57th. Heavy Anti-Aircraft Unit in Bedford, N.S. and had extensive training but, as they had only 4 guns, it was disbanded and many of us went to Petawawa, Ont. for Officer training. Following many months of training on 45 pounders (Field Guns) and related subjects moved to Debert N.S. and worked with the 23rd. Regiment until transit overseas. While stationed there met Doreen Weeks who became my wife after the war.
Arrived Camp Borden, England in Sept. 1943 and was immediately categorized "E-5" because of my eyes. (I had worn glasses since I was 9). Subsequently posted to Cove and near Hazelmere in Surrey. Active duty at Repatriation camps until return to Canada in January 1946. Had furloughs in Scotland and Ireland.
Married on my 30 days leave in February 1946 to Doreen Weeks of Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. and returned to Summerside with the Bank where our daughter Heather was born in Feb. 1947.
Transferred to Sault Ste. Marie in July 1949 as Accountant with the Bank. Our son Ross was born there in Nov. 1950. Promoted to the same post at Fort William in 1952 and in Jun. 1955 opened a new branch as Manager in St. Thomas, Ont. where we stayed until 1960.
Activities through these years were Badminton & Tennis in Summerside, gardening and outings in Sault Ste. Marie, figure skating in Fort William, Skating, Golf and Curling in St. Thomas.
In July 1960 was transferred to Kingston Rd & St. Clair, Toronto branch and rented a home nearby. Became involved with the Boy Scout movement and spent much time leading a Troop, making fiberglass canoes and canoeing and camping on trips to Algonquin Park and other remote areas in the summer months. Continued this activity even after I was transferred to Head Office, downtown Toronto, in Sept. 1963.
As Administrator of all 167 Ontario Branches was responsible to the General Manager for their financial plans and results. Upon my request for Branch involvement was made Manager at New Toronto in October 1966 and commuted until July 1967 when we bought a bungalow at 19 Lakeshore Drive on Lake Ontario for $19,000 (and found $4,000 in the walls).
In 1967 as Scoutmaster in charge of 32 boys and two assistants attended the World Boy Scout Jamboree in Idaho. About 30,000 boys from all over the world were there and our Troop entertained the King of Lichenstein and his son for dinner one night. Scott Carpenter the Astronaut and Lady Baden Powell were also in attendance.
In March 1978 Doreen became paralyzed due to a herniated disk and, following an operation and 8 months in rehab Hospital, was able to walk with difficulty using crutches but was mostly confined to a wheelchair. This condition continued until November 1996 when her legs became entirely paralyzed and she had to be admitted to a Nursing home in December.
In November 1980 I retired from the Bank and continued to Golf at Streetsville Glen Golf Club and Curl at the Dixie Curling Club. In late 1987 the Directors of Streetsville asked me to manage the Golf Course as they had some staff problems. As it was only a part time job I agree on condition I could do some of the work at home on my own computer. The yearly contract was for only $1,000. per month but as considerable progress was made that was increased to $2,000. for the second year and $3,000. the third year. This enabled me to put my whole pension into RRSPs.
In 1989 we were being approached to sell the golf course , and had an offer of $29 million for the shares but that offer aborted as the potential purchaser could not raise the necessary funds. Another purchaser for the Assets was located at $26 Million and this sale was completed on May 1, 1990. As I had been able to buy 318 shares I made a profit after tax of over $50,000. on that transaction.
In 1993 slipped on ice, landed on my left elbow, and broke the bursa necessitating an operation at St. Joseph's Hospital in Toronto.
In 1994 arranged a Family Reunion with just under 100 MacDowell relatives from all Provinces of Canada and Maine, New Hampshire and California meeting on Prince Edward Island. It was very successful and many new contacts were made. This enabled my family tree to be brought up-to-date and many names and details were added. All my children and grandchildren except Vincent attended.
In June 1996 Visited Vancouver Island for a week with family: Heather & Ross, Gail, Cameron, Vincent, Colleen and Christina. While on Vancouver Island had a small Reunion of MacDonalds at the Harriet & Charles Clark residence with perhaps 50 attending.
Having previously arranged a MacDowell family Reunion in Ponoka Alta we all spent a week there where about 75 attended including Marilyn from Portland and many of our Western cousins, nephews and nieces.
Although I had been having some physical difficulties including Arthritis, an inflamed duodenum caused by pills, diabetes and difficulty breathing following stress and strenuous activities it was not until March 1997 that a stress test confirmed I had angina and probably had suffered a minor heart attack which had caused some heart damage. Beta -blockers alleviated the Angina symptoms but Nitroglycerin was necessary on occasion. Continued to live quietly on beta-blockers and breathing assists.
In November 1999 had my right knee replaced and took therapy for two months followed by therapy at St. Johns Rehab for 3 weeks. Doing exercises at Gus Ryder pool and Health Club recovered quite well. Never could bend that knee more than 90 degrees.
In May 2001 had a heart operation including a triple by-pass and replacement of the aortic valve. Following the operation they had to re-enter to rewire the ribs and during recuperation I caught a bone infection necessitating antibiotics for a month at the hospital and at home until July 31. A nurse visited daily to change the IV and refill the cipro antibiotic.
On Apr 11, 2002 had right hip replaced in Long Island Hospital New York and stayed with daughter Heather for a couple of weeks and then she drove me home.
August 2003 had the Left knee replaced and had extensive therapy for nearly a year. This was more successful that the right one.
In late June 2004 Went on a Cruise with Heather to Alaska and in July drove with Ruth and GeorgeMacNeill to PEI to attend the 125th Anniversary of our High School.
In Dec 2004 suffered a fall and had to have 17 stitches in my forehead. Was badly shaken up and injured my left knee.
In 2005 went to Vancouver Island to visit sister-in-law Sandra Weeks and cousin Charles Clark and his wife Harriet. Ended up in the Hospital in Victoria with pneumonia. Confined for a week. Upon return home visited Doctor and the next day was in hospital with gall stones. One had moved into my liver.
Grandson Cameron was married in Kitchener on Jul 30 and 5 of family from New York attended.
Doreen’s health deteriorated and in December 2000 had to be placed in The McCall Centre, a good Nursing home where she was confined to an Electric wheelchair and required nursing care. She remained there until Nov 2, 2006 when she passed away. Her ashes were buried with her parents in Greenwood Cemetery at Sault Ste. Marie the following June.
During the period when Doreen was in the Nursing homeI completed extensive repairs to the home including a large Sun Room. Large windows were installed in the East wall which brightened the interior and greatly added to the value.
In November 2005 decided the house was too difficult for me to continue managing so moved into Amica at Erin Mills, Mississauga a retirement home with full services. The house sold for $617,000. and the rent at Amica was $4600. per month including everything. Underground parking was provided but I sold the car the following Spring.
The Retirement home is a seven storey building and contains all the amenities of a 5 star Hotel including a concierge, underground parking, swimming pool, exercise and games rooms, lovely Dining room and bar, a theatre, and every facility, including 2 Doctors- alternate days, nursing care if needed, cleaning, laundry, organized activities and bus trips to shopping malls, shows, parks,etc.
My days are consumed with computer work, including Income tax preparation (discontinued this year) and correspondence with over 350 names on my EMail address book including 100 Pensioners of the Bank. (Snailmail book also contains over 100 Pensioners names and addresses. (Given up May 2008) My computers are equipped with voice so that letters and newspapers are read aloud to me and indeed I can verbally order any program or document as long as I remember the name! My genealogy program contains over 13,000 names and I keep in touch with many relatives.
All in all at age 87 [in 2008] I live an active and enjoyable life with visits from friends and family also keeping me busy and happy.
Laing
- Laing passed away on June 25th [2010]. went into the hospital on the 18th with an infection of the pancreas, he was 7 months younger than [his cousin Charles Clark]
Contact information at time of death was:
laingmac@rogers.com
905-603-6205 - Home
4260 Kimbermount Ave., Suite 701
Mississauga, ON L5M 5W5
- Obituary Published in the Toronto Star from July 9 to July 10, 2010:
“MACDOWELL, Charles Laing - Died peacefully at the Credit
Valley Hospital after a short illness on June 25, 2010.
Born on November 4, 1920 in Summerside, Prince Edward
Island to Arthur and Melissa MacDowell. Enlisted in the
Canadian Armed Forces in 1942. Predeceased by his wife
Doreen Weeks from Sault Ste. Marie. Worked for the Bank of
Nova Scotia as Bank Manager in Fort William, St. Thomas and
Toronto until his retirement. Survived by his daughter
Heather Loria of Long Island, NY and son Ross MacDowell of
Kitchener, as well as four grandchildren Vincent, Colleen
and Christina Loria and Cameron MacDowell. He enjoyed
skating, curling and golfing. Volunteered with the CNIB,
Masons, Scouting, Lakeshore Rehab and the Bank of Nova
Scotia Pensioners club. Active on his computer composing
poetry, researching genealogy and keeping in contact with
many friends and family across Canada via email. In lieu of
flowers, memorial contributions can be made to a charity of
one's choice. Luncheon to be held at Amica Retirement Home
at 4620 Kimbermount Avenue, Mississauga on July 14th from
12 until 3 p.m. Visitation at Ridley's Funeral Home at 3080
Lakeshore Boulevard West, Toronto on July 15th from 12
until 2 p.m.” - forwarded by Dave Hunter www.islandregister.com
RESEARCH NOTES:
- Laing has a relative [Nov 2009] - not sure how related:
Edward J MacDowell R
Vision Realty All Islands - Kauai
1070 Kuhio Hwy.
Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii 96746
808-822-4444 ext 10
808-651-0660 cell
808-822-1612 fax
. Born on 4 Nov 1920 in Summerside, PEI, Canada. Charles Laing* died in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, on 25 Jun 2010; he was 89. Occupation: Banker. Education: High School. Religion: P.Notes from Laing MacDowell:
> Attended Summerside High School and was an avid Boy Scout.
> Parents had a small acerage and grew considerable produce. Raised horses, cows, foxes, mink, poultry etc. Skating, dancing and horseback riding were favourite sports. Family had a brood mare and raised some racing stock of which Hisox was a prominent winner.
> Worked in Summerside P.E.I. for The Bank of Nova Scotia from May 10, 1937 until Jan 2 ,1940 when transferred to Jacquet River N.B. then in Sept. 1940 to New Richmond on the Gaspe Coast. In Mar 1941 transferred to River Hebert N.S
> and enlisted in the Canadian Army in July 1942. After training in Charlottetown, Halifax, Bedford and Dartmouth was sent as Officer material to Petawawa where further training was given in Field Artillery. Due to a miscount they discovered they had too many officers and most of the trainees agreed to go overseas. In Dec. 1944 arrived in Camp Borden England. Was stationed in several other camps until Jan 1946 when he returned home and married.
> Returned to the Bank and lived in Summerside, Sault Ste..Marie, Fort William,. St. Thomas, Scarborough and New Toronto. Worked in Head Office 1964-1967 as Administrator of Ontario Branches (excluding Toronto) Also worked in Scotia Mortgage Corp. from 1978 to 1980.
> Retired on Nov. 30 1980. Bought a Macintosh computer and worked as an Administrator of Streetsville Glen Golf Course until it was sold in May 1990. Acted as a financial consultant and prepared Income tax reports as well as being an Officer and/or Director of several organizations.
> Joined Hiram & Lebanon Lodge # 3 A.F. & A.M. on Nov. 10, 1947 and Mimico Chapter R.A.M. # 215 G.R.C.
Updated Autobiography from Laing:
Born Nov. 4, 1920 at Summerside, P.E.I. the last of 6 children. Parents owned 15 acres of land they used as a small farm or Market Garden. Kept 5 or 6 cows, about 150 chickens, dozens of rabbits, 2 or 3 horses, 50-150 foxes, mink and grew vegetables of all kinds. I remember having 30 girls paid to pick strawberries one year! In addition to the 15 acres, their large home and barn were located on Poplar Ave. at the edge of town on a one acre lot where a large garden was also maintained.
Had a very healthy youth and, in addition to many farm chores, including feeding the animals, planting and gathering the crops cleaning the barn and chicken house, gathering eggs, , shoveling coal and snow, storing firewood when needed and generally helping with "farm" duties participated in many sports. These included particularly baseball, hockey, badminton, horseback riding, bicycling, camping with Boy Scouts and lots of skating.
As a result of a fall from a tree at age 9 or 10 broke the right arm near the wrist and, in the Spring of 1936 had a serious month of pleurisy of the left lung which left scar tissue.
Attended Summerside High School for eleven years and joined the Bank of Nova Scotia on May 10, 1937. Was transferred to Jacquet River N.B. in January 1940 and to New Richmond P. Q. in Sept. In March 1941 had a minor operation in Halifax. In June was transferred to River Hebert N.S.
Enlisted in the Canadian Army in July 1942 and took basic training in Charlottetown then was transferred to the Pay Corps in Halifax for 6 months.
Joined the 57th. Heavy Anti-Aircraft Unit in Bedford, N.S. and had extensive training but, as they had only 4 guns, it was disbanded and many of us went to Petawawa, Ont. for Officer training. Following many months of training on 45 pounders (Field Guns) and related subjects moved to Debert N.S. and worked with the 23rd. Regiment until transit overseas. While stationed there met Doreen Weeks who became my wife after the war.
Arrived Camp Borden, England in Sept. 1943 and was immediately categorized "E-5" because of my eyes. (I had worn glasses since I was 9). Subsequently posted to Cove and near Hazelmere in Surrey. Active duty at Repatriation camps until return to Canada in January 1946. Had furloughs in Scotland and Ireland.
Married on my 30 days leave in February 1946 to Doreen Weeks of Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. and returned to Summerside with the Bank where our daughter Heather was born in Feb. 1947.
Transferred to Sault Ste. Marie in July 1949 as Accountant with the Bank. Our son Ross was born there in Nov. 1950. Promoted to the same post at Fort William in 1952 and in Jun. 1955 opened a new branch as Manager in St. Thomas, Ont. where we stayed until 1960.
Activities through these years were Badminton & Tennis in Summerside, gardening and outings in Sault Ste. Marie, figure skating in Fort William, Skating, Golf and Curling in St. Thomas.
In July 1960 was transferred to Kingston Rd & St. Clair, Toronto branch and rented a home nearby. Became involved with the Boy Scout movement and spent much time leading a Troop, making fiberglass canoes and canoeing and camping on trips to Algonquin Park and other remote areas in the summer months. Continued this activity even after I was transferred to Head Office, downtown Toronto, in Sept. 1963.
As Administrator of all 167 Ontario Branches was responsible to the General Manager for their financial plans and results. Upon my request for Branch involvement was made Manager at New Toronto in October 1966 and commuted until July 1967 when we bought a bungalow at 19 Lakeshore Drive on Lake Ontario for $19,000 (and found $4,000 in the walls).
In 1967 as Scoutmaster in charge of 32 boys and two assistants attended the World Boy Scout Jamboree in Idaho. About 30,000 boys from all over the world were there and our Troop entertained the King of Lichenstein and his son for dinner one night. Scott Carpenter the Astronaut and Lady Baden Powell were also in attendance.
In March 1978 Doreen became paralyzed due to a herniated disk and, following an operation and 8 months in rehab Hospital, was able to walk with difficulty using crutches but was mostly confined to a wheelchair. This condition continued until November 1996 when her legs became entirely paralyzed and she had to be admitted to a Nursing home in December.
In November 1980 I retired from the Bank and continued to Golf at Streetsville Glen Golf Club and Curl at the Dixie Curling Club. In late 1987 the Directors of Streetsville asked me to manage the Golf Course as they had some staff problems. As it was only a part time job I agree on condition I could do some of the work at home on my own computer. The yearly contract was for only $1,000. per month but as considerable progress was made that was increased to $2,000. for the second year and $3,000. the third year. This enabled me to put my whole pension into RRSPs.
In 1989 we were being approached to sell the golf course , and had an offer of $29 million for the shares but that offer aborted as the potential purchaser could not raise the necessary funds. Another purchaser for the Assets was located at $26 Million and this sale was completed on May 1, 1990. As I had been able to buy 318 shares I made a profit after tax of over $50,000. on that transaction.
In 1993 slipped on ice, landed on my left elbow, and broke the bursa necessitating an operation at St. Joseph's Hospital in Toronto.
In 1994 arranged a Family Reunion with just under 100 MacDowell relatives from all Provinces of Canada and Maine, New Hampshire and California meeting on Prince Edward Island. It was very successful and many new contacts were made. This enabled my family tree to be brought up-to-date and many names and details were added. All my children and grandchildren except Vincent attended.
In June 1996 Visited Vancouver Island for a week with family: Heather & Ross, Gail, Cameron, Vincent, Colleen and Christina. While on Vancouver Island had a small Reunion of MacDonalds at the Harriet & Charles Clark residence with perhaps 50 attending.
Having previously arranged a MacDowell family Reunion in Ponoka Alta we all spent a week there where about 75 attended including Marilyn from Portland and many of our Western cousins, nephews and nieces.
Although I had been having some physical difficulties including Arthritis, an inflamed duodenum caused by pills, diabetes and difficulty breathing following stress and strenuous activities it was not until March 1997 that a stress test confirmed I had angina and probably had suffered a minor heart attack which had caused some heart damage. Beta -blockers alleviated the Angina symptoms but Nitroglycerin was necessary on occasion. Continued to live quietly on beta-blockers and breathing assists.
In November 1999 had my right knee replaced and took therapy for two months followed by therapy at St. Johns Rehab for 3 weeks. Doing exercises at Gus Ryder pool and Health Club recovered quite well. Never could bend that knee more than 90 degrees.
In May 2001 had a heart operation including a triple by-pass and replacement of the aortic valve. Following the operation they had to re-enter to rewire the ribs and during recuperation I caught a bone infection necessitating antibiotics for a month at the hospital and at home until July 31. A nurse visited daily to change the IV and refill the cipro antibiotic.
On Apr 11, 2002 had right hip replaced in Long Island Hospital New York and stayed with daughter Heather for a couple of weeks and then she drove me home.
August 2003 had the Left knee replaced and had extensive therapy for nearly a year. This was more successful that the right one.
In late June 2004 Went on a Cruise with Heather to Alaska and in July drove with Ruth and GeorgeMacNeill to PEI to attend the 125th Anniversary of our High School.
In Dec 2004 suffered a fall and had to have 17 stitches in my forehead. Was badly shaken up and injured my left knee.
In 2005 went to Vancouver Island to visit sister-in-law Sandra Weeks and cousin Charles Clark and his wife Harriet. Ended up in the Hospital in Victoria with pneumonia. Confined for a week. Upon return home visited Doctor and the next day was in hospital with gall stones. One had moved into my liver.
Grandson Cameron was married in Kitchener on Jul 30 and 5 of family from New York attended.
Doreen’s health deteriorated and in December 2000 had to be placed in The McCall Centre, a good Nursing home where she was confined to an Electric wheelchair and required nursing care. She remained there until Nov 2, 2006 when she passed away. Her ashes were buried with her parents in Greenwood Cemetery at Sault Ste. Marie the following June.
During the period when Doreen was in the Nursing homeI completed extensive repairs to the home including a large Sun Room. Large windows were installed in the East wall which brightened the interior and greatly added to the value.
In November 2005 decided the house was too difficult for me to continue managing so moved into Amica at Erin Mills, Mississauga a retirement home with full services. The house sold for $617,000. and the rent at Amica was $4600. per month including everything. Underground parking was provided but I sold the car the following Spring.
The Retirement home is a seven storey building and contains all the amenities of a 5 star Hotel including a concierge, underground parking, swimming pool, exercise and games rooms, lovely Dining room and bar, a theatre, and every facility, including 2 Doctors- alternate days, nursing care if needed, cleaning, laundry, organized activities and bus trips to shopping malls, shows, parks,etc.
My days are consumed with computer work, including Income tax preparation (discontinued this year) and correspondence with over 350 names on my EMail address book including 100 Pensioners of the Bank. (Snailmail book also contains over 100 Pensioners names and addresses. (Given up May 2008) My computers are equipped with voice so that letters and newspapers are read aloud to me and indeed I can verbally order any program or document as long as I remember the name! My genealogy program contains over 13,000 names and I keep in touch with many relatives.
All in all at age 87 [in 2008] I live an active and enjoyable life with visits from friends and family also keeping me busy and happy.
Laing
- Laing passed away on June 25th [2010]. went into the hospital on the 18th with an infection of the pancreas, he was 7 months younger than [his cousin Charles Clark]
Contact information at time of death was:
laingmac@rogers.com
905-603-6205 - Home
4260 Kimbermount Ave., Suite 701
Mississauga, ON L5M 5W5
- Obituary Published in the Toronto Star from July 9 to July 10, 2010:
“MACDOWELL, Charles Laing - Died peacefully at the Credit
Valley Hospital after a short illness on June 25, 2010.
Born on November 4, 1920 in Summerside, Prince Edward
Island to Arthur and Melissa MacDowell. Enlisted in the
Canadian Armed Forces in 1942. Predeceased by his wife
Doreen Weeks from Sault Ste. Marie. Worked for the Bank of
Nova Scotia as Bank Manager in Fort William, St. Thomas and
Toronto until his retirement. Survived by his daughter
Heather Loria of Long Island, NY and son Ross MacDowell of
Kitchener, as well as four grandchildren Vincent, Colleen
and Christina Loria and Cameron MacDowell. He enjoyed
skating, curling and golfing. Volunteered with the CNIB,
Masons, Scouting, Lakeshore Rehab and the Bank of Nova
Scotia Pensioners club. Active on his computer composing
poetry, researching genealogy and keeping in contact with
many friends and family across Canada via email. In lieu of
flowers, memorial contributions can be made to a charity of
one's choice. Luncheon to be held at Amica Retirement Home
at 4620 Kimbermount Avenue, Mississauga on July 14th from
12 until 3 p.m. Visitation at Ridley's Funeral Home at 3080
Lakeshore Boulevard West, Toronto on July 15th from 12
until 2 p.m.” - forwarded by Dave Hunter www.islandregister.com
RESEARCH NOTES:
- Laing has a relative [Nov 2009] - not sure how related:
Edward J MacDowell R
Vision Realty All Islands - Kauai
1070 Kuhio Hwy.
Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii 96746
808-822-4444 ext 10
808-651-0660 cell
808-822-1612 fax
In Feb 1946 when Charles Laing* was 25, he married Helen Doreen* WEEKS in Sault Ste Marie, ON, Canada. Born on 26 Oct 1920 in Sault Ste. Marie, ON, Canada. Helen Doreen* died in The McCall Centre Nursing Home, ON, Canada, on 2 Nov 2006; she was 86. Buried in Jun 2007 in Greenwood Cemetery, Sault Ste. Marie. Occupation: RN. Religion: P.
Notes from Laing MacDowell:
> Daughter of Herman Jefferson Weeks (1889-1971) and Ellen Marriah “Nellie” Hargreaves (1882-1940)
> Attended school in Sault Ste.Marie Ont
> in 1940 started training at the Montreal General Hospital School of Nursing . Graduated in l943 and worked in Halifax,Truro, St. John N.B. , Montreal, Sault Ste. Marie and Vancouver.
> Returned to Sault Ste. Marie and married.
> Lived in Summerside P.E.I. where Heather was born, Sault Ste.Marie where Ross was born, Fort William, St. Thomas, Scarborough and New Toronto.
> Became a paraplegic on March 7/78 and was in hospital for 8 months. Entered McCall Centre for Continuing Care on Dec 1.1996. Parkinsons Nov 1999.
n March 1978 Doreen became paralyzed due to a herniated disk and, following an operation and 8 months in rehab Hospital, was able to walk with difficulty using crutches but was mostly confined to a wheelchair. This condition continued until November 1996 when her legs became entirely paralyzed and she had to be admitted to a Nursing home in December.
Doreen’s health deteriorated and in December 2000 [1996?] had to be placed in The McCall Centre, a good Nursing home where she was confined to an Electric wheelchair and required nursing care. She remained there until Nov 2, 2006 when she passed away. Her ashes were buried with her parents in Greenwood Cemetery at Sault Ste. Marie the following June.
in Sault Ste Marie, ON, Canada. Born on 26 Oct 1920 in Sault Ste. Marie, ON, Canada. Helen Doreen* died in The McCall Centre Nursing Home, ON, Canada, on 2 Nov 2006; she was 86. Buried in Jun 2007 in Greenwood Cemetery, Sault Ste. Marie. Occupation: RN. Religion: P.Notes from Laing MacDowell:
> Daughter of Herman Jefferson Weeks (1889-1971) and Ellen Marriah “Nellie” Hargreaves (1882-1940)
> Attended school in Sault Ste.Marie Ont
> in 1940 started training at the Montreal General Hospital School of Nursing . Graduated in l943 and worked in Halifax,Truro, St. John N.B. , Montreal, Sault Ste. Marie and Vancouver.
> Returned to Sault Ste. Marie and married.
> Lived in Summerside P.E.I. where Heather was born, Sault Ste.Marie where Ross was born, Fort William, St. Thomas, Scarborough and New Toronto.
> Became a paraplegic on March 7/78 and was in hospital for 8 months. Entered McCall Centre for Continuing Care on Dec 1.1996. Parkinsons Nov 1999.
n March 1978 Doreen became paralyzed due to a herniated disk and, following an operation and 8 months in rehab Hospital, was able to walk with difficulty using crutches but was mostly confined to a wheelchair. This condition continued until November 1996 when her legs became entirely paralyzed and she had to be admitted to a Nursing home in December.
Doreen’s health deteriorated and in December 2000 [1996?] had to be placed in The McCall Centre, a good Nursing home where she was confined to an Electric wheelchair and required nursing care. She remained there until Nov 2, 2006 when she passed away. Her ashes were buried with her parents in Greenwood Cemetery at Sault Ste. Marie the following June.
They had the following children:
i.
(Living)
ii.
(Living)