Born in Bournemouth, England, Geoffrey arrived in Canada on a cargo ship with his mother, Mabel Charleton Ridley, sister Muriel Connie Thompson, brother Jack Thompson, and brother Ivan Ridley in 1925. He lived in various neighbourhoods in Victoria, from Mount Douglas to Hollywood Crescent (Ross Bay), and the Gorge, finally hand building a house for his family on Portage Inlet. He spent his years working
at various shipyards, from Victoria to Sidney BC;
even building a boat in his own backyard.
Coming into care with the help of staff at The Ritz Hotel and Cool Aid Society, he was lovingly supported by wonderful staff at Central Care Home. Heartfelt thanks to everyone who made Geoffrey feel like part of their family. Special thanks to Ginny York, Residential Care Administrator, for her support and advocacy during this time.
Geoffrey’s ship sailed quietly out of the Inner Harbour to a place of Peace with his friend of many years, Marria Gauley, by his side. He will be lovingly remembered and stay forever in her heart. Geoffrey endeared himself to all he met. Although he never married or had children of his own, he was full of love. With his gentle soul many people called him Grandpa, including his dear friend Marria & her sister, Peggy’s children. His ‘grandchildren’ brought him great happiness over the years.
A Graveside service will be held at Hatley Memorial Gardens, 2050 Sooke Road, Victoria on Friday, December 5, 2014 at 10:00 am.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Heights at Mt. View (formerly Central Care Home) Resident Benevolent Fund or Dandelion Society in Geoffrey’s name will be greatly appreciated.