Prince George. B.C.- There was standing room only at Knox United Church this evening, as family, friends and community gathered to celebrate the life of Edward Alexander Moffat, the man everyone knew as “Ted”.

 

The President of the Northern, Ted passed away February 26^th, losing his battle with cancer, but his love of life, family, the community and humour shone through during the service. In fact, humour was sprinkled throughout the  service.

 

Pastor Rob Smith paid homage to Ted’s sense of humour starting the service in a light hearted manner as he looked at the packed pews “Wow, I would just like to remind you that church is at 10 on Sundays.”

 

His business associate, John Hamm delivered the eulogy, apologizing for it being too long “Ted didn’t like long funerals, he used to say there is no need for everyone to get up and say the same things over and over again. He said it didn’t take that long to get into this world, it shouldn’t take that long to get out.”

 

Ted Moffat was described by Pastor Smith as a man who wore many hats, “He was a beloved husband, devoted father, grandfather, brother, uncle nephew and son. He was also a business owner, compassionate employer and an activist. The community today is much stronger because of his passion.”

 

Ted’s wife, Gloria, stepped forward to light a single candle which Pastor Smith said would symbolize the light that shon brightly through Ted, then added with a smile,  “the light is courtesy of the Northern” a chuckle rippled through the audience.

 

But it wasn’t all laughter.   John Hamm relayed a series of text messages he had had with Ted, some talked about the new generation that would take over the Northern, the Prince George Hardware store that is nearly as old as the City. “On February 26^th I texted to Ted, ‘heard you are in hospital, I’m coming home from Mexico today’…..there was no reply.” That text had arrived just a few minutes after Ted had died.

 

Jack Heinrich,   who served in the Socred government from ‘79 to ‘86  said Ted arrived at his campaign office “He said he was there to help, then added… you’re gonna need it.”

 

Through music and slide shows, the President of Northern Hardware was celebrated   with smiles and some tears. True to Ted Moffat’s  way, Pastor Smith  told all in attendance that the service would end with the one song Ted requested “Prop Me Up Against the Jukebox If I Die.”  

 

Even in passing, Ted Moffat had the last laugh.