Dr. Robert James Grierson Park

Dr Robert James Grierson Park (Grier), age 96, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Sunday, January 4, 2008 at TBRHSC. Grier was born in 1912 in Swift Current, Saskatchewan. In 1929 he graduated from Central School Collegiate and later earned his Pre Med BSc from the University of Saskatchewan (1933) and his MD (1936) from the University of Toronto. Upon completion of his internship/residency rotations at the Toronto General Hospital and his WWII service with the RCAF, he received his Specialist Certificate - Obstetrics and Gynaecology (1947) and FRCS. (C) (1972). Dr Park was a compassionate, dedicated and beloved Thunder Bay doctor for many years and in his Obstetrical/Gynaecological career delivered a remarkable 8,751 babies. He started practice in Fort William in 1940 at the Kresge Block in association with Dr C E Spence. He served as a Flight Lieutenant in the RCAF from 1941 until his return in 1946. In 1947, he and Dr P Spence formed the Spence Clinic at 910 Ridgeway Street. In 1954 he moved to his own office in the Francis Block and continued in private practice at the Ridgeway Clinic from 1955 until his retirement in 1990. Medical career appointments during his active practice included: Medical Staff, McKellar General, St, Joseph's and Port Arthur General Hospitals; Medical Officer and Medical Examiner, RCAF; and Medical Examiner, Civil Aviation-Transport Canada. He also served as: Vice President (1953) and President (1954) of the Thunder Bay Medical Society; President (1952) of McKellar General Hospital Medical Staff; and Chief of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (several times). In 1985 he was elected a Life Member of the Ontario Medical Association and formally honoured for his contribution to the Thunder Bay Medical Society in 1986. He continued to assist in the McKellar OR until 2000. Grier was a wonderful man; a devoted husband and understanding father; a true gentleman and gentle man; loved and admired by all who knew him, especially his family - the family pets certainly knew who their best friend was. A man of extraordinary and diverse talents, it was well known that "Grampa can fix anything" and was always busy in his "spare time" designing, building and repairing. Having a clever wit and a keen interest in documenting the family history, he left a legacy of entertaining and fascinating stories. A sportsman in his youth, he was an enthusiastic skater and baseball player. Upon acquiring the camp at Amethyst Harbour, he spent many happy days with family and friends fishing, boating, barbequing and enjoying a well deserved rest with those he loved. In his retirement years, he especially enjoyed tending his vegetable garden at daughter Betty's. Most of all, Grier delighted in the accomplishments of his children, grand children and great grandchildren and was always there to offer guidance, wisdom and support. Grier is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Shirley; daughter Betty McCauley of Thunder Bay; sons Ken (Sheila) of Cranbrook, BC and Ted (Debby) of Edmonton, AB; grandchildren Cathy McCauley (Dave), Michelle Fiorot (John) and Laura Morancy (Jeff); and great grandchildren Sarah, Gabriel, Jack, Aiden and Cole. Also surviving is his sister Jean Korven (Hans) of Saskatoon and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his mother Jessie (1945) and father Lindsay (1952); brother Ken (1979) and sister Margaret (1983); and son-in-law Jim McCauley (2002). According to Grier's wishes, cremation has taken place and a private funeral service was held on Thursday, January 8, 2009 at ten thirty at Jenkens Funeral Home with Msgr P M Stilla VG officiating. The readings were given by granddaughters Cathy and Laura and words of inspiration were spoken by great granddaughter Sarah. Long-time family friend and colleague Dr Andrej Habjan delivered a heartfelt eulogy. A private interment followed at Sunset Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation or a charity of your choice. WORDS OF THANKS The family would like to extend a sincere "thank you" to the hospital staff on 2A, especially to George and Sandi, for their kind and tender care. A special thanks is extended to Dr Andrej Habjan for his unfailing and extraordinary care and compassion over the years and to Msgr Pat Stilla for his words of comfort. Our sincere thanks to all those who sent cards, flowers and food. We appreciate the guidance offered by the staff of Jenkens Funeral Home and Sunset Memorial Gardens. On line condolences at: www.jenkens-funeral.ca JENKENS FUNERAL HOME CREMATION AND RECEPTION CENTRE (807) 623-3433"