Our hearts are crushed to announce the passing of George Thomas Liggett on April 11, 2020 at home surrounded by his devoted family. Taken far too soon, at the age of 58.
Forever cherished husband and soulmate of Mary Liggett (nee Koebel). Loving and devoted father of Leeanne Kelly (Joel). Also survived by Leeanne’s mother Mary Kelly. Super proud “Papa” of Dillon and Jorja. Beloved brother of Wayne (Sheree). Greatly missed by in-laws Wayne and Sharon Koebel, who loved him like their own. Also remembered and sadly missed by sister-in-law Sherry Goodman (Steve) and brothers-in-law Tony Koebel (Jeannette) and Wayne Koebel (Angele). Also lovingly remembered by his many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents Patricia (2007) and Ken (1996).
“Nig”, will also be profoundly missed by lifelong BFF “Bootsy” and Suzanne Bootsman and by our dear friend Dawn Sekerak (Steve “Zak” Sekerak predeceased 2007), whom George fulfilled his promise to his close friend Zak to always continue to be there and look out for Dawn after Zak’s passing without fail. As those of us that knew Nig were aware that he was totally solid and a man of his word, with a heart of gold.
George, more widely known as Nig, was born in Guelph, Ontario and raised in Guelph and Elora, Ontario. From early childhood through his teen years, he helped out on the family’s farms where he developed many skill sets, he honed over time, enabling him to fix or solve just about anything later in life, proudly; including his own Harley, as he was a lifelong true biker at heart. He shared his passion of travel to the Caribbean Islands with his wife Mary Liggett and family over the years. Those were the trips he cherished the most.
He was a devoted Toronto Maple Leaf’s fan and a true animal lover; wild or domestic and will be especially missed by our rescue cat Ruby, whom he lovingly tagged as “Rubes”. George could never stay still for long, constantly on the move inside his home and out and about. Enjoying family and friends, BBQs and hanging out around our pool. His #1 passion was his family, and he knew who his friends were. He loved to entertain. With his quick wit, and sense of humour, and OMG! the stories he would tell!! And never a word of a lie, truth be told, cuz Nig had “no filter”. He said it all “straight up”. Just like he lived his life straight up, soldiering through whatever life threw at him, living life on his own terms with no regrets. He meant so much to so many. There will only ever be one “Nig”. When he was made, they broke the mould.
George worked at Linamar (Transgear), Guelph, Ontario for 16 years. Most recently, working at Coco Paving (New Dundee, Ontario) for the Kitchener division; a job he clearly loved where he was vastly popular and respected. He loved the camaraderie at work and was a proud member of the International Union of Operating Engineers. Local 793. He will be missed.
Special thanks to all staff at Cambridge Memorial Hospital, Brantford General Hospital and St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton. We would like to extend a personal shout out of thanks to Oncologist, Dr. Brian Healy for the stellar “above and beyond” care and comfort and concern that George received. It will never be forgotten.
As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Cambridge Ontario Animal Shelter.
According to George’s wishes, cremation has taken place and as per his wishes, there will be no formal memorial service. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Please visit George's obituary notice on Facebook.