Obituary of George Thomson Ewan
George Ewan passed away in Kingston, Ontario, on December 7, 2020 at age 93, predeceased by his dear wife of 65 years, Maureen (nee Howard), in 2018. Beloved father of Elizabeth (Kris Inwood), Robert (Ann), and David George (died in infancy). Lovingly remembered by his siblings Jean and Marjorie, and the children of the late Bill and Agnes, as well as Maureen’s siblings and their children, including the Howards who attended Queen’s University. Affectionately remembered by his many friends, including professional colleagues and former students from around the world.
George was born in Edinburgh, Scotland on May 6, 1928. He excelled as a student and rugby player for George Watson’s College. He studied nuclear physics at Edinburgh University and published his first article with his PhD supervisor, Marion Ross, beginning seven decades of leading research in nuclear and particle physics. In 1952 he married his fellow student Maureen; the couple then crossed the Atlantic for George’s postdoctoral position at McGill University, Montreal. In 1955, they moved to Deep River , Ontario, where George was researcher at Chalk River Nuclear Laboratories (AECL), before becoming Professor of Physics at Queen’s University, Kingston 1970-94. George Pioneered the use of the lithium-drifted germanium detector, work recognized by the American Nuclear Society in 1967. In 1987 the Canadian Association of Physicists awarded him its Gold Medal for Lifetime Achievement in Physics; he received several honorary degrees and fellowships, including in the Royal Societies of Canada in Edinburgh. He was co-founder and Canadian spokesperson of the international collaboration to construct SNO (Sudbury Neutrino Observatory), which resulted in fundamental discoveries about the mass of neutrinos. SNO received the Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics in 2016 and the Nobel Prize for its Director in 2015.
A kind and generous mentor, teacher, father, and friend, George always considered all points of view and encouraged others to do the same. He was ever willing to laugh at himself, whether trying repeatedly to flame the Christmas pudding, or being identified to Physics Department visitors as the Prof with the shirt tail hanging out. He loved golf, whiskey, and family travel; in retirement, he and Maureen explored the globe. His Scottish accent and friendly manner made him welcome wherever he went. The family thanks the caring staff at Kingston General Hospital and Waterford Retirement Residence. Cremation was held at James Reid Funeral Home, Crematorium at 1900 John Counter Blvd. A celebration of life will be held later. In lieu of flowers, donations to Kingston General Hospital, Providence Care Hospital in Kingston, or the George and Maureen Lecture Series at Queen’s www.givetoqueend.ca/ewans are welcome.
