MacBEATH, GEORGE - George MacBeath died peacefully at Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital (DECH) on March 28, 2013 with his loving family around him. George was an unabashedly proud New Brunswicker and devoted family man who dedicated his working life to preserving historical resources in the Province. He was a writer and authored a number of books and articles, all of which concerned New Brunswick history. His quiet humour, loving presence and wealth of knowledge will be greatly missed. Born in Moncton on January 1, 1924, George was raised in Saint John. Despite humble beginnings, he went on to earn his doctorate from the Sorbonne in Paris before returning to Saint John as History Curator and eventually Director of the New Brunswick Museum. He had an abiding love of material history and historical objects. As an historian, museologist, and eventually Deputy Minister of Historical Resources, George had a long and distinguished career and received many awards including the Order of Canada. He was most proud of receiving the Order of New Brunswick in 2008, an award that acknowledged his commitment to the heritage of the Province and making it accessible to the public. He considered the creation of Kings Landing Historic Settlement to be his most challenging accomplishment. In his retirement, George and Marie have been involved in a variety of projects, including the development of Science East housed in the former York County jail. George is survived by his beloved wife and companion of 64 years, Marie, daughters Lyn and Judie, and grandchildren Nancy Johnston, Geordie Howes, and Kate Howes.
The family will host an informal Celebration of George’s Life at McAdam’s Funeral Home on Tuesday, April 2 from 7 to 9 pm, with ‘Words of Remembrance’ at 8 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to King’s Landing Historical Settlement in George’s name, either through McAdam’s Funeral Home or directly to Kings Landing (http://kingslanding.nb.ca/donations/ phone 506-363-4999) or to a favourite charity. Appreciation to Dr. Scott Robertson and the caring staff of 4E and 4SE, DECH. www.mcadamsfh.com