Premier Pat Binns issued the following statement upon hearing of the death of Dr. George Dewar:
“It is with great sadness that I wish to express my sympathies to the family of the late Dr. George Dewar. I learned of Dr. Dewar’s death earlier this morning.
“Dr. George was a member of the Legislative Assembly, a Minister of the Crown, an accomplished author, a brave serviceman, a great community activist, a valued health care professional, father, grandfather and husband. And, he was a long-time friend of mine, and from time to time a valued advisor.
“Most of all, Dr. George was a great Prince Edward Islander and he will be missed enormously.
“Dr. George was born in the eastern part of Prince Edward Island, New Perth, in 1915. He received his early education at area schools and went on to study at Prince of Wales College, Dalhousie University and the University of Toronto.
“As a physician, Dr. Dewar entered the Canadian Medical Corps in 1941 and served until after the conclusion of World War II.
“Dr. George established a medical practice in O’Leary and continued to service residents of that area with tremendous care until just this fall.
“Always looking for additional ways to serve his community and province, Dr. George offered as a PC candidate in the 1955 provincial election, when he was first elected. He continued to serve the people of West Prince until 1978; a remarkable 23 year political career and, a testament to the respect he had in his community.
“During that time he served dutifully as Minister of Education, Provincial Secretary and the Leader of the Official Opposition.
“Dr. Dewar has been decorated widely for his service to his province and fellow citizens. He is a recipient of both the Order of Canada and the Order of Prince Edward Island. He is a life member of the Canadian Medical Association and a life member of the Royal Canadian Legion. He was also a recipient of the Legion’s Meritorious Service Medal.
“He had been an active sportsman, an avid supporter of the O’Leary Library and Potato Museum and accomplished author of many interesting publications.
“With the death of Dr. George Dewar, this province has lost one of its most distinguished and respected citizens. It will be in his home community of O’Leary where he will be most missed, by those he loved and those who loved him.
“To his wife Jean, his daughter Ellen and son Brian and their families I express my sincere condolences and sympathies.”