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*UPDATED* DOBBS: Freeman “George” Brien of Exeter

March 19, 2020 By Haskett Funeral Home 64 Condolences

*UPDATED* DOBBS: Freeman “George” Brien of Exeter

On January 20, 2020, George Dobbs, of Exeter, departed on his final flight. He was 89.  Beloved partner of Bev Connelly. Dear father of Bob and Penny Dobbs of Lambeth, John and Lynn Dobbs of Woodstock, Mike Dobbs of Hensall, Kiera Connelly-Tompos and the late John (2016) of Minden, and Chad Connelly and Nikki Posa of Aurora. Dear grandfather of Scott and Kerry and Shannon and James; Rianne and Kellie; Shawn; Cayden, Landon and Shaylin. Dear great-grandfather of Cassandra, Lincoln, and Iris. Dear brother-in-law of Patricia McLean-Dobbs. Predeceased by brother Fred Dobbs (2019)

George was a long-time Exeter businessman owning Dobbs motors. He had a love for hunting, fishing, and the outdoors, but his favourite hobby was building planes. Throughout George’s life he built a total of six planes and they are all still flying today.

The Celebration of George’s Life has been cancelled. Cremation has taken place with a private interment at St. James Cemetery, Clandeboye.

Donations to Jessica’s House, the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation, or the South Huron Hospital Foundation would be appreciated by the family.

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Offer Condolence for the family of *UPDATED* DOBBS: Freeman “George” Brien of Exeter

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Filed Under: Exeter, Obituary

Condolence Messages

  1. Michelle (Brenda) M

    December 5, 2020 at 6:52 PM

    George was my biological grandfather. I had the pleasure of meeting him in his glory at an air show north of Exeter. He was a very kind man, and I am so pleased I had that chance to meet him.

  2. Cara Lee Bissonnette

    April 26, 2020 at 9:20 PM

    My sincere condolences to you all. I have such fond memories growing up of George and his gentle soul. Such a kind person. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

  3. Kiera Connelly-Tompos

    April 4, 2020 at 12:44 PM

    I wish I could have been there today for you Mom.
    I love you.
    Sweet rest George.

  4. Alison Connolly

    April 1, 2020 at 10:05 PM

    My condolences to the Dobbs family. So sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. He was such a kind and gentle man who always greeted you with a smile. Sending thoughts and prayers to all.

  5. Mike Hagarty

    March 29, 2020 at 7:26 PM

    John, so sorry at the loss of your father. Moe and I are thinking of you and your family, and wish you peace and comfort in this very difficult time. Clearly a great family man, he must have lived a wonderful, adventurous, and joyous life.

  6. Lynda Huber

    March 28, 2020 at 1:03 PM

    Bob, Penny and family

    Our condolences on the loss of your father, grandfather, and great grandfather. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.

    Lynda and Len Huber

  7. Jerry and Alice MacLean

    March 25, 2020 at 11:13 PM

    So sorry to learn of George’s passing
    He was a pleasant man and will be missed by many.

  8. Donna Regier

    March 21, 2020 at 12:47 AM

    Bev and Family.
    So sorry for your loss. I had many good conversations with George and Bev Lindenfield over coffee at Mickey D’s over the years. Cherish your memories Bev.
    Hugs Donna. ????

  9. Joan & Ken Agnew

    February 1, 2020 at 10:19 AM

    Bev, we were sad to hear of George’s passing but relieved to know he will no longer suffer. Our love to you as you adjust to a new life without him. God bless.

  10. John & Bernadette McAuley

    January 31, 2020 at 10:59 AM

    John,
    We’re so sorry for your loss. I have fond memories of time spent in George’s shop working on your Jeep, the old Ford pickup and his first aircraft. I Remember our trips to the dealers auction and driving cars back home. I bought 2 cars from George and always felt he gave me a great deal. He will be sadly missed. RIP George.

  11. Ruth Ann and Vic Jeanson

    January 29, 2020 at 4:08 PM

    John, we wish to express our deepest sympathy to you and your family on the loss of your father. We cannot be with you at this sad time but hopefully we will be back in time for the celebration of life. Thank God for a life well lived.

  12. Marilyn Waldeck

    January 27, 2020 at 8:44 AM

    Bev & Family, Very sorry to hear of the loss of George. Hugs to you during the days ahead and hold on to you memories you shared. Marilyn

  13. Tom Creech

    January 26, 2020 at 9:16 PM

    I have many fond memories of George, both at his home and business locations and later in life, at Bob Heywood’s auctions both in town and surrounding area. I learned more about building aircraft than I could ever imagine, then having the pleasure of flying in some of them with John.

    Our hearts go to out to Bob and Penny, John and Lynn, Mike and Bev.

    Tom Creech and Jackie Pugh

  14. jack kraft

    January 26, 2020 at 10:56 AM

    George will be missed by many for sure. So very sorry for your loss Bev, Bob, John and Mike.
    George was a great neighbour and friend. As I grew up into my teen years, he helped me build a boat, took me to many a stream fishing (for that big speckle trout) and helped me paint my Firebird. Also , when ever there was a new hot car at Dobbs Motors, it always ended up in the driveway for me to see. Quite often, George would say ….So what do you think ….followed by ; the keys are in it , take her for a spin. WOW was I a lucky lad. 340Swingers,Dusters,Super Bee, Hemi Charger just to name a few.
    Thanks for the memories George.

  15. Ron Wiley

    January 25, 2020 at 4:48 PM

    John, Lynn and family,

    So sorry to hear of your fathers passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this most difficult time.

    Ron & Audrey Wiley

  16. Betty and Jim Deblock

    January 24, 2020 at 8:23 PM

    Bev and family,
    So sorry to read about George’s passing. Our condolences to each of you. George was such a kind, friendly man and talented man. He will be missed.

  17. Judy (Finkbeiner) & Barry Johnson

    January 24, 2020 at 7:01 PM

    Our sympathy to Bev and family and friends at this sad time. George was such a nice gentleman…we always enjoyed wee chats with our neighbour when he was out on his walks. When we had our black lab, who has since passed, she and George would have morning “visits” which she was always ready for – looking for him as soon as she went outside.

    Thinking of you….

    Barry & Judy Johnson

  18. Doug and Phyl LIghtfoot

    January 24, 2020 at 4:02 PM

    So sorry to hear about George passing. Thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.

  19. Christa DeGrace

    January 24, 2020 at 3:07 PM

    So sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.

  20. Kate Monk & Doug Hocking

    January 24, 2020 at 2:58 PM

    Dear Bev and family,
    Our sincere condolences to you at this sad time. George was such a friendly, kind and talented man. Thankful to own the Thatcher, and we can’t forget the Hummelbird. George built both these aircraft so well and others too. He will not be forgotten.
    Take good care,
    Doug and Kate

  21. Willi and Waynne Charlton

    January 23, 2020 at 10:50 PM

    A valued member of the original 23.
    A sad day for the town of Exeter.
    Our sincere condolences to the family. I always enjoyed the time I spent in George’s company.

  22. Don and Joan Heywood

    January 23, 2020 at 10:20 PM

    Bev and family:

    So sorry to hear of George’s passing. What a fine gentleman. Our thoughts and prayers with all of you at this difficult time. Hugs Don & Joan

  23. Joyce Hunter

    January 23, 2020 at 9:55 PM

    John, Lynn and family – just heard the news of your father’s passing. Thoughts, prayers and hugs to all. May the memories shared during his lifetime bring you peace, strength and comfort.

  24. ROBERT DAWE

    January 23, 2020 at 8:06 PM

    You could always count on George to make a car right if you had issues with it . As a technician at Exeter Chrysler we would see him to get vehicles serviced and making it the best for his customers was always his goal. Such a kind and caring man with great knowledge. Rest in piece .

  25. Valorie

    January 23, 2020 at 3:55 PM

    Bev and Family, So sorry
    For your loss our condolences to everyone.Hugs from Valorie Hewitt Coulter and Dale from Minden

  26. Mike Ash & Kathy Liberty

    January 23, 2020 at 9:49 AM

    Our spirits were always lifted whenever we met George at Sexsmith. He was a gentleman and a great aircraft builder. Our condolences Bev.

  27. Margaret A Brintnell

    January 23, 2020 at 9:30 AM

    Bev & All George’s family.
    George was a wonderful knowledgeable respectful man. We all enjoyed him sharing his memories with us about so many different topics at MacDonalds. He was a great friend of (Bill Armstrong) for many yrs. They went on fishing trips, hunting when they were young. George took Bill flying also. We extend our sympathy to all of you at this sad time. Share your your memories now & in days to come.

    Margaret Brintnell and Marion Armstrong

  28. Mike and JoAnne (Inch) Pickering

    January 23, 2020 at 8:34 AM

    So sorry to hear of your dad George passing. I have some good memories from my childhood. Dad bought cars from your dad. Hoping your great memories will help you at this sad time.

    Mike and JoAnne (Inch) Pickering

  29. Linda Hegler

    January 22, 2020 at 11:26 PM

    James, Shannon and Iris,
    So very sorry to hear of the passing of your grandfather and great grandfather. My thoughts and prayers are with you and all your family. I think I would have liked this man and his plane building talent.

  30. Martha and Bob Heywood

    January 22, 2020 at 11:10 PM

    Bev and George’s Boys:
    We are truly sorry to hear of your loss . Our community also has lost one of Exeter’s “Old Boy’s” in business. I bought one of my first cars from George and even remember Grandpa Fred doing up the paperwork. Bought one or two after that and always enjoyed George’s stories and friendship. So glad Bev that you set up our telephone conversation last week. I will miss the coffee “kibbutzin” at Macdonalds and seeing George and you at the auction sales. Wishing God’s peace for all of you.

  31. Helen Delorme

    January 22, 2020 at 10:12 PM

    Helen and William Delorme

    Bev. Bob, John and Mike

    So sorry to hear of George’s passing he was a true
    Gentleman I work with him at Dobbs Motor Ltd.
    Fond memories of fishing, hunting and airplane building.
    My condolences.

  32. Roxane and Dave Bell

    January 22, 2020 at 10:08 PM

    So very sorry for your loss Bev ???? he left you with so many wonderful memories… cherish them as you will need them in days to come????Thinking of you hugs my friend ????????????

  33. JJ Fuentes

    January 22, 2020 at 10:00 PM

    so sorry to hear about George passing, my condolences to his family

  34. Marg Prout

    January 22, 2020 at 8:59 PM

    Sincere condolences to you and all your family.

  35. Al and Mary Draisey

    January 22, 2020 at 8:20 PM

    Bev and Family

    We send our deepest sympathy to all. George was such a pleasant and friendly person. Always enjoyed our
    visits at Sexsmith or on the street. Will miss him. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

  36. Dave Keys

    January 22, 2020 at 8:15 PM

    To Bev & The Dobbs Family
    George was a wonderful & friendly neighbor I always enjoyed our visits as he strolled around the neighbourhood? Our condolences to the family at this very difficult time.
    Dave,Shelly & Rachelle Keys

  37. Linda Webber

    January 22, 2020 at 7:02 PM

    To Bev and George;s family:
    Please accept our heartfelt condolences
    Linda & Eugene Webber

  38. Rick frayne

    January 22, 2020 at 6:13 PM

    Very sorry for your loss. George was a great gentleman and friend, always positive and quick to smile and laugh with us

  39. George and Sue Wilson

    January 22, 2020 at 4:40 PM

    Bev and family, Bob, John, Mike and families, we are sorry that George has passed away. He was a friendly man. I remember him as a child, always a gentleman, and very patient. I remember Dobbs Garage. My parents liked George. Cherish your precious memories and hold them close to your heart. Hugs and prayers, George and Sue(Insley) Wilson

  40. Jill Geiger

    January 22, 2020 at 4:21 PM

    Dear Bev,
    Thinking of you and sending big hugs,
    Jill and Ralph

  41. Rose Izzard

    January 22, 2020 at 3:59 PM

    John, Lynn and Family
    My heart goes out to you at this time.
    Thoughts and Prayers
    Love Rosie

  42. Bob & Grace Clarke , Belle river On.

    January 22, 2020 at 3:54 PM

    As we loose yet another family member , I remember going to Dobb’s Motors , visiting with George and Uncle Fred as my father made another vehicle deal or was getting a vehicle serviced . Such a kind and caring person . Our sympathies to the Dobbs family , but may his many family memories live on for ever !

  43. Robert and Sharon Dale

    January 22, 2020 at 2:47 PM

    Dear Dobbs Family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. George was a great guy, always with a smile and always had time to chat. He will be dearly missed. Keep George close to your heart and he will always be with you. Love and prayers
    Robert and Sharon Dale

  44. Fred Dobbs

    January 22, 2020 at 1:08 PM

    George was my only uncle but would have been my favorite even if I had 10 more! Many great times were spent fishing along a local river with George and my father Fred, bonding and sharing our joint appreciation for the outdoors. These experiences shaped my future career and way of life. George was a terrific mentor and a good friend, he will be greatly missed!

  45. WAYNE HAMATHER

    January 22, 2020 at 12:07 PM

    To Bev and the Dobbs family
    Sorry to hear of George,s passing,he was a true gentleman. I have fond memories of traveling the car auctions with him, and talking flying at Sexsmith.
    My sincere sympathy
    Wayne Hamather

  46. Mark McLennan

    January 22, 2020 at 11:38 AM

    John,
    Sorry to hear of your dad’s passing,
    Prayers arising.
    Rev. Mark

  47. BEV. LINDENFIELD

    January 22, 2020 at 11:16 AM

    GEORGE WAS A VERY GOOD FRIEND, FOR OVER 50 YEARS,MY HUNTING & FISHING PARTNER, A PILOT AT SEXSMITH FOR 38 YEARS, TWO TRIPS TO LAKELAND FLORIDA, SUN & FUN, AND ONE TRIP TO OSHKOSH
    WISCONSIN ,FLY IN, WE FLEW IN MY 172 CESSNA ,THAT CRUISES AT 118 MILES PER HOUR, ON OUR WAY TO
    LAKELAND WE FLEW OVER OPY CANOPY SWAMP,THAT TOOK OVER 3/4 OF AN HOUR BEFORE DRY LAND
    I SAID TO GEORGE, A LOT OF CROKS AND SNAKES DOWN THERE, WE WENT HOME ANOTHER WAY.?
    WE HAD A LOT OF GOOD TIMES TOGETHER, AND I’M REALY MISSING MY BUDDY.
    BEV. LINDENFIELD

  48. Bev Delbridge & Gary Cornish

    January 22, 2020 at 10:46 AM

    Our deepest sympathy to the family. George was a kind & gentle man.

  49. Don and Edith Lewis & Family

    January 22, 2020 at 10:15 AM

    Bev and family.

    Please accept our sincere condolence.
    George was always a friendly guy.
    He will be missed,
    Cherish his memories.

  50. John & Liz Stephens

    January 22, 2020 at 9:58 AM

    Myrtle Beach S.C. Bev & George`s family . So sorry to hear of George`s passing ,he was a great neighbour while living on Riverside Dr. George was the first person we met , when we came from TO. looking for a lot to build on .That meeting changed our lives & are forever grateful .George was one of a few people that always called me Elizabeth ,he will be missed

  51. Cy & Eleanor Blommaert

    January 22, 2020 at 9:58 AM

    Dear Bev and the Dobbs family
    So sorry to hear that George has passed.
    George always had a smile, and time to chat.
    May he Rest In Peace
    Cy &Eleanor

  52. Marion Taylor

    January 22, 2020 at 8:37 AM

    Thinking about all of you… may you find comfort in the care and concern that surrounds you now and in the days ahead. .. keeping you in our thoughts and prayers … hugs and love Mariah and Marion

  53. Gabbie and Margaret Mol

    January 22, 2020 at 7:56 AM

    Our sincere condolences with the loss of George We have great memories

  54. Evelyn Vincent

    January 22, 2020 at 7:29 AM

    Bev and George’s family
    Sincere sympathy in your great loss.

  55. Dave Frayne and Cathy Cade

    January 22, 2020 at 6:47 AM

    To Bob, John, Mike, Bev and families:
    Sorry to learn of George’s passing. He was a very talented man and his skills are apparent that he built six aircraft from scratch and they are all still flying.
    He built them in his car lot garage and his basement of his home and did final assembly at Sexsmith. He enjoyed giving rides in his RV and it flew like a dream.
    Thinking of you during this difficult time.

  56. Linda Marsden

    January 22, 2020 at 4:43 AM

    So sorry Bev, loads of hugs

  57. Linda Lee

    January 21, 2020 at 11:05 PM

    Bob ,Penny and family : deepest sympathies at this very difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
    Linda & Larry

  58. Ray and Judy Mills

    January 21, 2020 at 9:22 PM

    Dear Bev,
    I am so sorry for your loss. Ray and I have known the Dobbs family for many years. We always enjoyed chatting with George. There was always some tidbit of news or piece of information he had to share with us, as well as everyone else he met. And of course he always had that ready smile! You are in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless.

  59. Helen Ryan

    January 21, 2020 at 9:19 PM

    To Bev and the Dobbs family – a man of distinction has left our earthly world to rest in peace and comfort. There is another star in heaven to watch over those in his care. Bev, it will soon be time for you to relax. Establish a routine with George in your heart and on your mind. Meet each day knowing he is at peace. HTime, family and friends will help you with your new endeavours, oh and don’t forget those precious memories!
    Hugs and prayers are headed your way.

  60. Sue Riley

    January 21, 2020 at 8:12 PM

    Mike…..Thinking of you during this difficult time! Larry Gibbings/Sue Riley

  61. Ron and AnneHelm

    January 21, 2020 at 7:54 PM

    To Bev and family,
    Pleas accept our most sincere condolences on the passing of George. He was a a personal and much valued friend, We shared much in our aviation world. He was a wonderful guy and will be greatly missed.
    Ron and Anne Helm

  62. Joan Cleave

    January 21, 2020 at 7:38 PM

    Bev…so very sorry to hear of the loss of George…my thoughts are with you at his sad time…

  63. Wendi Schwindt

    January 21, 2020 at 7:05 PM

    We are so sorry to hear about George…Fred and George were great supporters of the community and good friends to us.

  64. Anmarie (Kraft) Hoffman

    January 21, 2020 at 6:43 PM

    My heartfelt ‘Sympathy’ to all of George’s family. George was a dear neighbor & friend while growing up on Riverside Dr…….. Sincerely, Anmarie Kraft- Hoffman

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