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A Royal Canadian Navy Historical Project
In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
WILLIAMSON, Albert Clare - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Whitey aka "Al, Will, Bert" with his family by his side on Tuesday, October 29, 2019 at the age of 90. Whitey was born in Sarnia, Ont., February 6, 1929. In 1945 he joined the Royal Canadian Navy as an Ordinary Seaman. He went on to obtain his pilot wings and the rank of Lt. Cmdr. Even though he spent time on other bases, most of his career was at CFB Shearwater with his beloved planes. In his early career he sailed on the HMCS Warrior and the HMCS Ontario and after earning his commission he flew off the HMCS Magnificent and the last Canadian aircraft carrier the HMCS Bonaventure. Always an avid sports fan, he played for the Shearwater Flyers football and baseball teams. In 1975 he retired from the Navy and started his second career as "Al the bartender" at the Halifax International Airport. In 1991 he completely retired and for the next 28 years he and his wife Pat travelled the world, including spending winters in Clearwater, Fla. and the last 14 winters in La Cruz, Mexico. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Patrica "Pat" Williamson; children, Susan (Al) Melvin, Steven (Trudy) Williamson, Shelley (Terry) Bond; grandchildren, Jeffery Bond, Andy (Susan) Williamson, Evan (Erin) Doubleday, James (Courtney) Ballard, Matthew Bellefontaine, Ashleigh (Kris) Patey, Mikki (Jessy) Groundwater; adopted grandchildren, Nicholas Verhaeghe, Thacyana Valois Silva and Nancy Susy Bryant; 12 great- grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Bazil and Lily Williamson; son, Scott Williamson and sister, Evelyn Freer. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Thanks to Dr. Young, nurses in the ICU, D & D and T.J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists. Donations may be made in his name to The Shearwater Aviation Museum or Canadian Naval Memorial Trust. (Halifax Chronicle-Herald 06 Nov 2019)
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For Posterity's Sake 
