Obituary of George Charles Frederick Blumson

It is with profound sadness that the family of George Charles Frederick Blumson of London, announce his passing on Tuesday May 19th, 2026 at Glendale Crossing in his 93rd year. Predeceased by his beloved wife, Mary Ann (Nancy), whose love and companionship remained close to his heart.

Deeply loved and very much missed by his three children and their spouses, Pat Cleary (Kevin), Gregory Blumson (Chantal), and Leslie Pommer (Steven). Adored grandfather to his five grandchildren on whom he doted from the moment they were born: Derek Cleary, Cassandra Blumson, Mikaela Pommer-Herba (David), Matthew Blumson (Santana), Joshua Pommer (Christina). Also survived by his step-grandchildren Sarah Jackson (Devon) and Christopher Cochrane (Jessalynn).

George was known throughout the community for his decades long career as an award-winning newspaper photographer with the London Free Press. He truly loved his job and was honoured to have worked in a field where he was able to capture moments of both ordinary and historic significance with a thoughtful eye. Whether he was documenting the fall of the Berlin Wall, pivotal moments during the Civil Rights marches led by Martin Luther King Jr, or capturing his beloved Toronto Blue Jays’ inaugural Opening Day, George’s photos brought the world home to Southwestern Ontario in the pre-digital age.  George was never without at least two cameras and a ladder to help capture the perfect shot as it developed. When his treasured grandchildren arrived, he recorded every moment of their lives as though they were destined for the front pages, because to George, they were everything.

Beyond his career, George loved sports of all kinds but had a special passion for baseball. He liked to regale his family with tales of playing for the Knollwood Merchants in his youth and later enjoyed playing many seasons of Huff and Puff.   Always the competitor, George would happily relive his at bats and great plays to anyone within earshot.

George and Nancy loved their backyard on Estella Court, the site of so many family celebrations. The simple acts of cutting the lawn and tending his gardens brought George great joy, particularly if his beloved tomato plants produced something extra flavourful. He cherished the changing of seasons because it gave him an excuse to wander around his backyard. A reluctant cat owner to start, George softened into the ultimate cat dad, creating a loving bond with his sweet tuxedo Zoey.

George and Nancy loved to travel, enjoying cruises, Caribbean vacations, and trips to Holland throughout their long life together.

George is fondly remembered by his brother-in-law, Richard Pietersma, sister-in-law, Beth Pietersma as well as many nieces and nephews, notably nieces Janet Seim, Nancy Clayton, Kim Lang and Dawn Jackson.

George was predeceased by his parents Fredrick and Ruby Blumson, son Jeffrey Blumson, grandson Zachary Blumson, sister Rose Marie Giffen, in-laws Antonia and Dirk Pietersma, brothers-in-law Robert Pietersma and Norm Giffen and sisters-In-law, Barbara Gibb and Patrica Pietersma.

George lived a long and wonderful life. Although dementia robbed him of many of his memories, it never budged his fighting spirit. He imparted to his family a belief that good manners, independence, and a stubborn streak would carry a person through nearly anything, and that is how he will be remembered. George’s final words were “thank you”.

George’s family extends heartfelt thanks to the amazing staff on Bryon at Glendale Crossing. Their wonderful care will not be forgotten, and the love shown to George was sincerely appreciated.

Cremation has taken place. A private family service will be held at a later date. Donations in George’s memory can be made to the Alzheimer Society of Canada.