Dr. Edwin George Jr. Belzer

belzer, ed (2).jpg

photo credit: CBC

When I rise up let me rise up joyful like a bird

When I fall let me fall without regret like a leaf

-Wendell Berry

BELZER, Dr. Edwin George Jr. - age 81, of Dartmouth/Middle Musquodoboit passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on August 5th, 2020. He was a son of the late Edwin George Sr. and Mae (Wiley). Ed is survived by his beloved and devoted wife of 53 years Kathryn (Gillespie), daughters; Terry Lynn (Theodore) of New Mexico, Andrealisa Damacia of Dartmouth, son; Anton “Tony" Anduin (Susan) of Texas, and grandchildren; Johannes Anduin, Grayson Lee (Jack), and Ava.

Ed was predeceased by siblings Janet Fairo and William Belzer.

Ed moved to Nova Scotia in 1969 to join Dalhousie’s School of Physical Education. A beloved professor of human sexuality and consumer environmentalism, he will long be celebrated for his substantial and eclectic contributions as an athlete, mentor, academic, Percheron farmer, Quaker Friend, poet and volunteer.

Ed’s kindness, discipline and brilliance has touched countless individuals near and far and had a lasting impact on many organizations. He approached life with wonder and gratitude, as expressed in his own words, below:

Suddenly

Poem by Ed Belzer

Photo credit: www.dal.ca

Photo credit: www.dal.ca

The team is fresh and stepping along,

And the Cockshutt Giant cuts its five-foot swath.

But progress is slow.

Despite mower, mares, and me

The stand withstands

And the day grows short.

Then, suddenly, the end is in sight

And–it happens every time–

The stand falls with surprising speed.

It is finished.

Like the early rounds of a hayland

The seasons of youth were long.

Now time hastens

But still I cannot see the end.

When I do

How can I fail to be astonished

At how quickly it is finished?

 

A special thanks to Dr. Cherie Collicut, for her devoted care to Ed over the years.  A private family eco-burial has taken place, and a memorial service will be held at a later date once current restrictions have loosened. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hope for Wildlife or a charity of your choice.

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