In 1914, on the frigid Northern Ontario shores of Lake Superior just outside Fort William, a young expectant mother-to-be began to dye and crochet this exquisite homespun wool blanket. [see below] She would soon use it to wrap around her first child, her only son, George, to protect him from the blistery winter nights ahead. [Two sisters, Mary and Jean, would join the family later] George treasured this exquisite blanket over the ninety five years of his active life, and used it to comfort him in his final days here with us.

George was raised in Northern Ontario where his father worked for the Canadian Pacific Railroad. His association with Knox goes back to the days of Dr. Christie Innes [1939-44] when he was Dr. Innes's secretary. During this time he felt called to full time ministry and enrolled at Knox College. After graduation, George spent four years in rural Biggar, Saskatchewan. Here he would hitch a ride on the freight trains and jump off the still moving train at his destination so he could preach at a Sunday evening service at his second church. His next fifteen years were at Chalmers Presbyterian Church in Hamilton. Under his ministry at Chalmers, the church grew to its largest membership on record: 592. Support for missions grew to record levels as the whole of February was missionary month. In 1965, Jack Voelkel accompanied Dr. Fitch on a visit to George in Chalmers. As a result of that visit George returned to Knox Church, this time as assistant to Dr. William Fitch.[1956-72] All through his years of ministry at Knox, George had a heart for missions and a very personal interest in every missionary sent to the field. He continued to supplement the ministry of Dr. Glyn Owen [1974-86] and Dr. Mariano DiGangi [1987-89].He served every aspect of the congregation welcoming each newcomer and sharing from his vast knowledge of his Christian experiences. After his retirement in 1989, he kept in close contact with so many, writing letters and emails of encouragement. George's letters of encouragement became legendary.

George went home to be with his Lord, at 3:35 on Friday, December 5, 2008, from his home at Christie Gardens in Toronto. Many friends were with him during his final hours, and surely a large crowd welcomed him when he arrived at his real Home! George has earned the name of Knox Mr. Missions.

Listen to Rev Lowe's sermon on Global Outreach as preached at Knox on November 30th, 1980...click here. [Large file, takes a long time]