Alex embarked on the personal journey to his spiritual resting place on April 21, 2015 at the wise old age of 87. He departed quietly in the early morning from Glazier View Lodge in Comox B.C. where the spiralling narrative of his life brought him back to his roots, having arrived into this world on December 19, 1927 at Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Comox B.C.
Alex was the fifth of eight children born of Maude (nee: Pickles) of Denman Island and John (Jack) McGee of County Antrim, Northern Ireland. He is predeceased by his parents and older brothers John and Gordon, and sisters Jessie and Annie.
He is survived by his dear sister Nora Fuller and younger brothers James and Norman, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Alex was an avid gardener and if he wasn’t at his iconic “shack” in Fanny Bay, he could usually be found toiling away in his cherished garden. He had an appreciation for solitude, but also delighted in visits from family and friends whom he welcomed into his home with open arms and an open heart.
Always ready with a captivating story and welcome treats, he was a man of family loyalty and integrity who lived his life modestly, appreciating the simple pleasures of life. Alex loved writing letters and collecting coins, like memories deposited into the bank of life, they gathered his interest and with an eye for detail, he watched the tapestry of his life unfold as he chose.
He believed in intuition and followed his gut instincts, which in his day, “witched” him many a good well! He was a strong, hardworking man who earned the nickname, “The Tiger”.
Alex worked in a few occupations including farming, the timber industry, the shellfish industry and of course tilling his land, which bring thoughts of his legacy to this simple and touching poem by an unknown author;
“Something Beautiful Remains”
The tide recedes, but leaves behind bright seashells on the sand.
The sun goes down, but gentle warmth still lingers in the land.
The music stops, and yet it echoes on in sweet refrains.
For every joy that passes, something beautiful remains
Alex will live on in the memories of those who loved and cherished him for the great man he was. He will be deeply missed by all, but the light of his smile will forever be etched in our hearts. Burial will be at Denman Island cemetery on May 1st, 2015. In lieu of flowers please feel free to plant some in his memory.