Edward Arthur (Ted) Mayes, aged 92 years, formerly of Van Norman Street, passed away on Feb 8, 2023 at Pioneer Ridge. Ted was born in Port Arthur on September 28, 1930 to the late Lettia Pearl (Mace) and the late Herbert Mayes. Ted grew up in Current River, and attended Claude Garton School, Central School, and then “Tech” [aka Hillcrest High School]. Ted married Marguerite Elizabeth Blake (a Fort William girl) on December 4, 1954 at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church. Marguerite and Ted enjoyed more than 60 years of marriage.
First and foremost, Ted was a wonderful father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend. He loved to play games / sports and to teach / include others. Ted also enjoyed a good conversation over a drink of Pepsi. Ted made several deep friendships over the years.
Ted spent more than 44 years working for Saskatchewan Wheat Pool in Thunder Bay – in the main office as a grain accountant and office supervisor.
Ted had many interests and excelled in every one. Ted amassed a collection of about 10,000 movies and he shared these generously with family and friends. Ted enjoyed card games – especially cribbage and bridge. When he started competitive bridge it took but a few years to become a life master at the age of 47.
Ted curled at the Port Arthur Curling Club for most of his adult years – winning prizes in bonspiels, and making it to the finals of the club championship one year. As a skip, Ted scored an 8-ender in 1992 and was presented with a trophy and certificate. Ted’s home golf club (playing well into his 8th decade) was Strathcona. A round of golf every day from April to October probably contributed to his longevity. The “Mayes Way” sign at Strathcona was erected by his golfing buddies, and is Ted’s sign. The “Mayes Way” sign marks a short and direct path between the green on one hole and the tee on the next. This path was not in the plan for the course – but Ted’s common sense and perseverance paid off when the staff stopped filling in the path Ted cleared daily, and the path became permanent. In 1982, Ted scored a hole-in-one at Municipal. Gardening was another hobby. Everyone who visited his yard on Van Norman Street remarked on the dandelion free lawn, nicely maintained patio and lovely marigold flowers. Ted was also known for his vibrant sense of humour and one-liners.
The ”Mayes Way” was much more than a sign for Ted. It was a way of life. Ted believed in being active, creative, patient, kind, caring, helpful and persistent. This is the “Mayes Way” and this is how he lived his life.
Ted was blessed by having good neighbours and good friends – many who looked out for him - especially in his later years. Thank you! Ted’s family also appreciates the staff of Plaza 4 at Pioneer Ridge for the care received and the fellowship enjoyed during the last 2 years.
Ted was pre-deceased by wife Marguerite in May of 2015. Ted is survived by his sons Les (Martha) and Brad (Maryann), grand children: Erin Bruce, Gregory Mayes (Andrew), Michael Mayes, and step-grandson Eugene Tegola. He is also survived by great grand children: Breanna and Nate Bruce; Maya, Ava, and Luca Tegola; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Ted and Marguerite were active at Westminster United Church when the boys were younger and always remembered both Westminster and Trinity with their givings.
Cremation has taken place. A graveside ceremony will be held later in 2023 when the weather improves.
Donations to the charity of your choice will be appreciated.
