George Windsor Clendenan

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of George Windsor Clendenan, who passed peacefully at South Muskoka Memorial Hospital on August 27th, 2025 at the age of 93 years in Bracebridge, Ontario.

George was born on December 24th in Hamilton, Ontario to Dr. Douglas Gilmour Clendenan and Henrietta Doherty Clendenan. He spent his childhood in Winona and Hamilton.

After graduating from Central Collegiate High School, George attended McMaster University where he completed a Bachelor of Arts. He then completed teachers college at University of Toronto. This was followed by a Master of Arts University of Chicago. He went on to pursue a long, successful career in education, working for Etobicoke Board of Education (now Toronto District School Board), initially as a teacher, and then as a principal, finishing his career as superintendent.

Beyond professional life, George was deeply devoted to the Church of the Messiah in Toronto and laterally St. James Anglican Church in Gravenhurst. He met the love of his life, fellow teacher Marilyn, while teaching at his first school Alderwood Collegiate in 1956. Their 55 year marriage began on June 27th, 1959, and they had two children. In 1962 they built a cottage on Little Lake Joe, which continues to bring joy to the family 60+ years later. They later moved from the city to Gravenhurst in 2003, where they spent the majority of their retirement. Together they created a loving life filled with family, cottage time, and travel.

Those who knew George will remember his kindness, patience, endless generosity, and dry sense of humour. He was passionate about gardening, boating, carving, art, photography, and spoiling his grandchildren.

George is survived by his children, Doug (Kim) and Lynn, his grandchildren, Rachel and Emma, and his niece Marianne. He was preceded in death by his wife Marilyn and his sister Rosemary.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Hammell, nurse Cindy at South Muskoka Memorial Hospital, and the care team at Castle Peak Retirement Residence for their support and kindness.

A service will be held on September 2nd at 11 am at St. James Anglican Church with a small gathering to follow in Gravenhurst. Details will be shared at the service. George was a very generous donor and supported many causes throughout his life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. James Anglican Church or to a local non-profit charity that’s close to your heart.