CORBETT: Bert
Posted By On July 9, 2019 @ 12:00 AM In Goderich, Obituary | 9 Comments
Bert David Corbett passed away peacefully on July 9th at the Alexandra Marine General Hospital in Goderich, Ontario. Survived by Georgie, his wife of 59 years, and his three sons Ken (Laura), Brian (Patricia) and Rob (Louisa). Also left to mourn their Papa are his Grandchildren Mitch (Maca) & Sam (Jodi), Katie Girard, Lily & Zara and one Great-Grandchild Madelyn.
Born in Creemore in 1935, Bert started his career as a heavy equipment mechanic but settled into teaching auto shop at Uxbridge Secondary School after his sons were born. Always willing to volunteer, Bert was active in the Kinsmen Club in Uxbridge and was honoured as a Kinsmen for Life. Bert was an accomplished athlete in his youth, and so it was no surprise that he was intensely involved in both Minor Hockey and Minor Baseball in Uxbridge. Bert was humbled to be named Uxbridge Citizen of the Year in 1981.
Shortly after retirement in 1990, Bert and Georgie moved to Goderich where he became an active member of the Huron Chapel Missionary Church. Looking for something new, he took up wood carving and soon became recognized for his talent. He shared his enthusiasm for his craft by teaching his fellow Snowbirds, in Panama City Beach, the delicate intricacies of carving birds. He continued to share his love for carving as a member of the Goderich Art Club, when winters in Florida were no longer an option.
Bert was the original MacGyver. He was able to fix just about anything with whatever was around. We are quite certain the words, “I’ll just buy a new one” never crossed his lips. A kind soul if ever there was one, devoted to his wife and family and a friend to all who knew him.
A memorial service honouring Bert will be held at McCallum & Palla Funeral on Wednesday July 31st at 1:00 p.m. with a visitation preceding the service beginning at noon. In lieu of flowers a donation to the Huron Chapel Missionary Church or the charity of choice is greatly appreciated.
“What is the essence of life? To serve others and to do good”
Aristotle
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Condolences for the family of “CORBETT: Bert”
I am so sorry for your loss of Bert. He really epitomized the kind and sincere man who would stop at nothing to share a smile, fix something unfixable or give unselfishly of his time and considerable talent to teach others that which he knew so well himself. I recall many instances of that gift being freely given while he taught shop at Uxbridge Secondary School. I never saw anger or frustration in his teaching. His calm and enduring teaching skills were exercised daily. He was a man of peace and grace and a true friend. I count myself as one of those friends.
Here is a further photo of Bert Corbett from Uxbridge Secondary School yearbook 1989 – 1990
Having been in the family just shy of 2 years, i remember my father in law best when my husband Brian and Dad came to pick up my daughter and myself to go to Goderich for a few days, and the 2 of them getting all turned around and ending up in Hamilton, once they came to Burlington Dad remembered me from Uxbridge High School. I could not have a more amazing father in law! You will always be loved and missed!
Sending our deepest sympathies to the entire family
Charlotte Mills and family
So sorry to hear of Mr. Corbett’s passing, sincere sympathy to all the family. He was my high school automotive teacher and helped me in my interest of mechanics and thanks to him I pursued that as a career.
Hello Ken Rob Brian and Georgie . Please accept our condolences from The Brunne family on the passing of Bert. My Dad norm wanted me to pass along he is thinking about you at this time .
All the best Dave Brunne and family
Bert Corbett was a valued colleague of mine at Uxbridge S.S. In the many years we taught there, I never met Bert that he did not have a pleasant smile and a cheerful word, often followed by a joyful chuckle.
His auto shop was a refuge for many boys who loved “tinkering” with cars. Bert kindly helped me with my car problems on several occasions, always the kind gentleman.
I remember his sons as fine young men and attentive students, a credit to Georgie and Bert.
Joining you with fond memories of Bert and sympathy at his loss,
Sincerely
Kathleen Trenka
Bert was a great Colleague at USS. He welcomed me graciously when I transferred there and soon invited me to help coach his Cross Country team. We enjoyed many cheerful visits in the lunch room as well. Bert will be missed.
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My sincere condolences to Mr. Corbett’s family. I did not know him well but always enjoyed chatting with him at the art sale. It should make you very happy to realize how many homes are graced by his lovely pieces. This little fellow honours my living room and has given me many smiles. Again, I am so sorry for your loss.