WOODSTOCK, ON – Murray Daniel Seeley, 85, passed away suddenly at St. Joseph’s Hospital, London, Ontario on April 15, 2003. Murray was born in Upper Brighton, New Brunswick on February 24, 1919 to Ernest and Annie Seeley. Murray grew up on a potato farm in Jacksonville Corners, New Brunswick in the shadow of the Harland Covered Bridge. He qualified as a school teacher when he was 17 years old, teaching in rural New Brunswick schools. He proudly served Canada as a decorated navigator in the R.A.F. during World War II.
Upon his return he completed his Bachelor of Science Degree in Forestry at the University of New Brunswick. His professional leadership resulted in remarkable innovations to the Forest Industry. Murray was a highly regarded executive vice president of Great Lakes Forest Products in Thunder Bay. He was a director on the boards of several Canadian companies including Canadian pacific Limited. He served two terms as Chairman of the Canadian Pulp and Paper association. After retiring, Murray served as Chairman of the United Way of Thunder Bay, until he moved to southern Ontario to be near his family.
Survived by his wife and best friend of 55 years, Georgina (Rideout); beloved father of Elizabeth Martin and her husband Robert, cherished “Papa” of Laura and William. Murray was predeceased by his parents, a sister, Rozella; and three brothers, Harold, George and Raymond. Murray will be remembered for his gracious and gentle manner, for his personal courage and integrity, for his commitment to his profession, his church and his community, for his service to others and for his tireless devotion to his family.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, April 28, 2003 at 2:00 pm at the First Baptist Church, 603 Adelaide St., Woodstock, Ontario with Pastor David Stephens officiating. Contributions to the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated and may be arranged through the R.D. Longworth Funeral Home, Woodstock (519-539-0004).
Published in the Telegraph-Journal on 4/17/2003
