I pulled this off the internet from the week that Dad passed away. It records, with some sense of formality a bit of Dad’s life. What he use to refer to as “the dash” – you know the dash between the date of birth and death that goes in a notice or on a grave marker?!

It doesn’t do justice of course to his full life, and as his son, I can could tell you so much more. I’m not intended in doing that here, but to thank God for his influence in my life and to mark what would have been his 90th birthday!

Obituary of Arthur Edward ‘Bud’ Waters

Waters, Arthur Edward (Commissioner) Retired Salvation Army Officer passed away peacefully October 20, 2002 at the Hotel Dieu Hospital in St. Catharines, Ontario at the age of 71 years. ‘Bud’ as he was fondly known by, was an outgoing and energetic Christian gentleman known to family and friends for his quick wit and compassionate concern for everyone he knew. He was a man of integrity and initiative bringing a love for people and administrative skills to his Christian service across Canada. He served as Hospital Board Chair at Windsor Grace Hospital (1978-83), member of the National Board of Directors for The Canadian Bible Society (1987-1992) as well as giving Leadership to The Salvation Army at Territorial Headquarters, Toronto (for Canada and Bermuda) and International Headquarters, London, England before retiring to St. Catharines in 1995. He was a man of prayer and faith who demonstrated daily his commitment to Jesus. his remarkable example of Christian faith made a mark upon all who came into his sphere of influence. He will be sadly missed by his loving wife of 47 years Margaret (nee Eastland), son Fred (Wendy) of Calgary, daughters Leanne Ferguson (Shaun) of Tampa, Florida, Catherine Harney (Terry) of Markham, and grandchildren (who loved him to put his play clothes on): Jason, Philip, Noah, Jacob, and Laura. Nieces: Mariyn Webb (Ron), Pat Fletcher as well as many sisters/brother in law. He was much loved by family members and Salvation Army friends.

These pictures capture memories that are still so alive in my memory, our memories. The photo of Dad walking with Jason was taken across the street from where CFOT was on Bayview Avenue where we went to stretch our legs. I had my camera with me and was ahead of them a bit to get this picture – I can still feel the cool autumn air and hear Jason talking away as Dad listened intently. It’s like it was yesterday in so many ways.

I think memory is one of the great gifts of God to us.