Obituary of George Babbage

GEORGE BABBAGE

April 12, 1930 – October 20, 2024

George Babbage, 94, passed away in Burlington, Ontario, after a long and full life.

He was born in Firgrove, Somerset West, South Africa on St. George's Day (April 23) 1930 to Annie Isabel Rowell and Herbert Babbage. He is also predeceased by his half-brother, Christopher Babbage and his cousin Byrnece Cook (nee Morrall).

George was a beloved husband, father, friend and colleague. He is survived by Gordana, his wife of 51 years, daughters Belinda and Maria and son-in-law Graham. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him, including his family in South Africa: cousin Ian Morrall, wife Binnie and their children; and Canada: Kata Kitaljevich and her brother Duka, his wife Joan and their children Kiera and Evan.

George completed his B.Sc. (Surveying) at the University of Cape Town at age 20 and immigrated to Canada in 1952, beginning his long and successful career in the federal public service.

In the Legal Surveys Division, he traveled to remote regions in northern Canada, mapping the extraordinary landscape and capturing its breathtaking beauty as an amateur photographer. Prior to retirement, he served as Director General of the Canada Centre for Surveying, Director and Dominion Geodesist (1987-1989), and President of the Canadian Institute of Surveying (1986-87).

George met Gordana Tomic through her cousin, Savo Kitaljevich, George's very close friend and colleague. The couple married in 1973 and were inseparable until his death.

George was known for his intelligence, integrity, generosity and kindness, providing guidance and support to family members and friends whenever they were in need. He actively supported many charities and good causes, and was a founding member of the South African Rainbow Nation Association (SARNA).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of their choice, or anecdotes and stories about George be shared at his memorial reception: Nov. 29, 1:30 p.m. at Pinecrest Cemetery.