(1920- 2013)
Physician, professor of family practice and former provincial Minister of Health (NL), passed away peacefully on July 20, 2013 in Toronto, Ontario. He is survived by his wife Bea (nee Adams), of 68 years, son David (Marian) and daughter Jane (Tammy) and grandchildren: Christine and Allan. Gus was born in Heart’s Content, Newfoundland, on August 2nd, 1920 and served in the Royal Newfoundland Regiment during WWII. Following the war, Gus graduated from The University of London’s medical school, St. Mary’s Hospital, London, England and began his medical career in 1954 as a general practitioner in Carbonear where he practiced until 1971. He was then elected a member of the House of Assembly for Carbonear and was appointed Minister of Health from January 1972 to 1975. He then returned to medicine at Memorial University in St. John’s and was named professor and chairman of Family Practice, which he headed from 1978 to 1985. Over the years, Gus held a variety of academic and professional positions. He served as the President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association, and was Newfoundland’s representative to the Canadian Medical Association (CMA). Over the years he volunteered with a number of organizations, most notably the Canadian Red Cross. After Gus retired in 1985 he and Bea moved to Toronto to be closer to their children. He spent his time golfing, playing a mediocre piano, and enjoying his daily gin and tonic. They wintered with family and friends in Barefoot Bay, Florida. Private family service to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Salvation Army, Canadian Red Cross, North York General Hospital Foundation or a charity of your choice.