G. Edgar Meads Jr., M.D.
October 24, 2022
Passed away peacefully on October 24th, 2022 at the age of 88, while at St. Joseph’s Hospice of London. He was born in Goodrich, Michigan, the son of Dr. and Mrs. G.E. Meads, Sr. He is survived by Barbara, his wife of 65 years; one sister, Mary Jo Bullock; five children: Dr. Tom Meads (Christine), Steve Meads (Glenda), Julie Thome (Andy), Jeffrey Meads (Margaret) and Anne; 11 grandchildren: Spencer, Faith, Sarah, Tim, John (Sukriti), Claire (Tyler), Drew, Katie (Nelson), Liesl (Andy), Harry and Anna; and four great-grandchildren: Ellie and Charlie Grumney, Missy, and Khrishtian. He was predeceased by his parents and his grandson, Michael.
Dr. Meads was raised in Oxford, Michigan. He graduated from OHS as a member of the Honor Society, winner of the Oxford Cup and a 12-letter winner. He then earned a B.A. in Pre-Med from the University of Michigan. There he played football, being elected Captain in 1955. He was elected to two honorary societies and was a Fielding H. Yost Scholar.
Following graduation, he and Barbara were married in Ann Arbor and moved to London, ON where Ed began classes at UWO Faculty of Medicine. He received an M.D. with honours and was a member of the Mustang Football team for 2 years, earning All-Canadian honours each year.
Upon graduation from medical school, he interned for a year in Detroit, followed by a 4-and-a-half year residency in General Surgery at UWO under the direction of Dr. Angus McLachlin. This resulted in achieving an F.R.C.S.(c) and F.A.C.S.
Following this, the Meads family moved to Nashville, TN where Ed undertook a Samuel McLaughlin Traveling Fellowship at Vanderbilt University. The move was cut short one year by Ed’s drafting into the U.S. Army Medical Corps for 2 years. One year was spent at Fort Campbell, KY and one year was spent in RVN at the 91st and 93rd Evac. Hospitals. Ed was Chief of Surgery at the 93rd Evac., promoted to Major and given the Bronze Star Medal. During the second year, Barb and family moved back to London.
Upon discharge, Ed joined the faculty of the Dept. of Surgery at UWO in private practice with Dr. Donald MacKenzie and Dr. John Sweeney at St. Joseph’s Hospital. Ten years later, Ed became a full-time surgeon at St. Joseph’s Hospital, serving as Chief of Surgery for 10 years. He retired as Professor Emeritus in 2004.
Ed was a man of many interests, talents, and achievements. He loved his family and delighted in watching them perform in the gym and on the field. Christmas was always a special time for him. Many of his other enjoyable times, activities, placed and interests were: golf, bridge, Sigma Chi Fraternity, College football and basketball, Wolverines and Mustangs, tailgating, fishing, vacationing in Northern Michigan and Ontario, visiting University campuses, teaching and interacting with students and house staff, the practice of surgery, good friends, right-wing politics, a sense of humour, Florida life and Catholicism.
During his lifetime, Ed earned or was given many honours, awards, and memberships. These include those related to athletics, scholarship, teaching, and social achievements. He was always modest and unassuming when receiving them.
Cremation has taken place and a private family Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Family Parish. Interment at St. Peter’s Cemetery in London. In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation to St. Joseph’s Hospice of London would be greatly appreciated.
Leave a tribute for G. Edgar Meads Jr., M.D.
Leave a tribute
I am just reading the obituary on Dr. Meads now in the CMAJ As identified, he had many achievements and honors. It was a small things that people remember him for. As a young resident, he offered great counsel to me after a difficult incident. he took me aside and said that we had done everything we could. His acknowledgment made a huge difference at the time and I still recall his kindness from sonMany years ago With kind regards Louise Moist
On behalf of Terry and I, we are sending our deepest condolences to Barb and all members of the Meads’ immediate and extended families. Dr. Meads was a formidable, larger than life presence in both our lives – always exuding warmth, humour, and love. During Terry’s coming-of-age years, Dr. Meads was a constant in his life, always there - supporting and cheering on Terry’s achievements. When I think of Dr. Meads, I remember the tailgates, the bowl games on New Year’s Day, and many other Gonser/Mead’s celebrations that revolved around family and sport. His hospitality knew no bounds as he wasn’t content until you had food in one hand and a libation in the other. Ed’s life was a life well lived and it’s apropos to add – he left it all on the field! His legacy will be long-lasting in both our hearts. We hold him in high esteem. We reflect back and pay forward the respect and love he bestowed on us. Terry and I always felt we belonged in his magnanimous presence. In remembrance and with love, Liz and Terry Gonser
Dear Mrs. Meads and family, I was fortunate to work with Meadsie in OR15 for quite a long time. I always knew it would be a good day when I saw my name next his room on the OR list. He was an excellent surgeon and an all round good man. I enjoyed his knowledge of trivia facts! I am sorry for your loss
My condolences to Barb and family. Ed was a very respected classmate and stalwart of Meds '61. He will be missed by so many.
I still cannot come to terms with the news of Ed's death. He's been part of my life for the past sixty-five years, beginning in September 1957 and the start of medical school . Our friendship continued after graduation and those years of 'training' when we learned how to become 'real' doctors. And then, for many years, we were colleagues at St. Joseph's Hospital. Ed was unlike anyone I have ever met -- intellectually (and athletically) head and shoulders above all of us. But there was more -- he was the kind of person physicians turned to when family members needed help. When, even after several years, we would briefly meet, you knew that he was genuinely glad to see you. He had a sly, even surreptitious sense of humour, and he shared it with you. Barbara --- it was my great privilege to know Ed and to call him a friend. Know that you and your children are in my prayers.
A donation has been made to St Josephs Hospice. Message from the donator: Ed and Barbara were so kind to give me and my son Hayden their tickets for a Michigan Wolverine Football game. It was the highlight of Hayden's sports event career and he cherishes the photo we took that day in the stands. Ed was a great role model to young doctors in London, and he excelled in surgery, athletics, and was a great father, teacher and husband. Best wishes to Barbara and the family. Paul Adams
Sue and I are saddened by the passing of our good friend Ed Meads. Ed became a friend of all of us in the Class of Meds 61 when he came up from Michigan to join us at Western in 1957. We were very impressed that someone could carry the burden of being a medical student, while also playing for the Mustangs! He and Barb became lifelong friends for many of us, and we have continued to enjoy their friendship in the post retirement years. As a classmate, and later colleague, and as a friend of 65 years, I have always admired Ed for his skill as a surgeon, his power of concentration, his commitment to his patients and his ability to interact with colleagues and patients. I was very grateful when he came to our farm many years ago and performed minor surgery on some young lambs for us! In recent years it has been wonderful to see Ed and Barb and go over old times. We were fortunate to be with them at the sixtieth reunion of Meds ’61. Ed will be greatly missed by his many patients and colleagues in London and also by his former classmates of Meds ’61 in Canada and the United States.
Dear Mrs. Meads and family. The last time I spoke with Dr. meads was at Remark, the day before Christmas some years ago and the line up was long. A nice man behind me offered to have me put my basket which was getting heavy (all the carts were in use) in his cart while we waited. All of a sudden we recognized each other and off we were, recalling the days in the O.R at St. Joe’s. We had a lovely time reminiscing and I’m so glad now for that lineup. Working with him always meant a calm and efficient day. He was so well respected by all the staff and I'm so grateful for the privilege of having known him and of working with him. My deepest sympathies. Mariane Hossfeld
We send our sincere condolences to Barb and family. We remember Dr Meads enthusiastically cheering on all the Banting School teams. Ken enjoyed his friendship with Ed on the golf course too. It’s interesting to note that they both left us on the same day.
Dear Mrs Meads and family, I was so saddened to hear of the passing of this amazing gentleman. I worked in the O.R at St Joes for 35 years and spent many a day,and some evenings and nights working with this wonderful surgeon. I hope all the beautiful memories you have collected over the years will help you get through this difficult time. Rest In Peace our gentle giant. Hugs Jeanett Wood
I had the privilege of working with Dr. Ed Meads when I started working as a pathologist at St. Joseph’s Hospital, as it was known then. Ed was a decent man, a gentleman, a valued colleague and the epitome of a true general surgeon. It was an honour to have worked with him. My deepest sympathy to his family; may his memory be a blessing.
Dear Barbara & family, Last year Dr. Meads told me Hank Greenberg was his childhood hero. I had the privilege last year of sharing with Ed that he was/is my own hero. May his memory be a blessing.
Dr Meads was the perfect gentleman, a gentle teacher, a remarkable surgeon and a compassionate healer.I am honoured to have worked with him . My deepest sympathy. Roman Kozak
I am a graduate of UWO Meds 92. Dr Meads was a great surgeon, mentor, and teacher. He encouraged many of us including myself in our choice of career as surgeons. I am grateful to have had his insight on and practical example of what it takes to be a great surgeon for your patients. I took to heart his belief that careful and attentive care to surgical techniques was paramount. I am sorry for your family’s loss. Best regards. Sara (Fisher) Pedersen.
Dear Mrs. Meads and family Am so very sorry to hear of “Hawkeye’s” passing. Hard to believe I’ve been calling him that for over fifty years. I’m a retired RN from SJH Emerg. and worked with him for many years. He was a kind, compassionate person and an excellent surgeon. My thoughts and prayers are with you. RIP Hawkeye. Betsy Henderson
I am very sorry to learn of the passing of a former colleague from St. Joseph’s Health Care. I had the privilege of being a medical student on Surgery at St. Joseph’s where Dr. Meads was my teacher. Later when I joined the staff as a neurologist he was a valued colleague. My sincerest and deepest sympathies to all of the members of the family—but especially Barbara. May each of you be comforted, in the days ahead, by the love that he leaves behind for you all.
Dear Barb and family, Michelle and I are very saddened by Ed’s passing. He has always been one of our favourite people. I benefited greatly from his mentorship during my surgery rotation, particularly lessons learned watching his skillful manner when interacting with patients. I always enjoyed our meetings on the golf course and at U of Michigan football games. I am delighted to have known Barb and several of the children- all marvellous individuals, no doubt due to Ed’s personality and his zest for life. All who knew him will miss him with fondness. You are all in our thoughts. Sandy Fetterly and Michelle Hall
A Fine and Accomplished Gentleman . With Deepest Sympathy to Barbara and family in your loss of Ed. Wishing you Peace and comfort. Lois and Bala ( Hazel Lanes )
Many wonderful memories over the years. We will miss Ed dearly. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Barb and all the family.
My lifelong friendship with Jeff led to further friendship with all of the Meads and Ed was particularly kind to me. His absolutely remarkable biography of athletic, academic, medical and military awards is only surpassed by the modesty with which he received them… never heard them mentioned… never once. Long ago, digging ourselves out of a youthful indiscretion, I recall Jeff imploring authorities that his father was a “professional wrestler” and should under no circumstances be contacted… just another facet of Ed’s life that he kept to himself. Nicole and I send send our warm memories and condolences to Jeff, Barb and all of the Meads family.
I always loved seeing Dr Meads, especially with my Dad at 450 Central or SJH. Their rapport and true friendship was evident. The whole Sweeney clan sends our love and condolences.
My condolences to Mrs. Meads and the children I had the good fortune of witnessing Ed Meads and his children in high school where he brought an exacting degree of focus to high school sports at Banting HS. Ed never seemed to miss a basketball or football game and was always sure to keep the coaching staff on their toes while his and Mr. Gonsers passion for sports spilled over to all of the athletes. Many years later we would run into Ed at the church on Gasparilla Island; however, I did not realize that he was also a brother of Sigma Chi. In Hoc, All owner to his name.
Dr Meads was a dear friend and partner to my late Father Dr John Paul Sweeney. I have many fond memories of Dr Meads , his Wife ‘ Babs ‘ and his Family. Parties at 1495 Stoneybrook Cres and later 375 St George with Mom and Dad bring me many nice memories. Golf at the Hunt Club or tickets to Michigan games were a special treat too. Thank you Dr Meads for your Friendship. Please accept my most sincere condolences. With Love…Sean Sweeney.
A very fine gentleman to be sure. My condolences to the family.
This man was a gem of a human being; showing others what is possible, what could be reached for character, uprightness, caring, and knowledge. A giant in his field, immensely skilled, and so humble. It was honour to work on his surgical service. To his family, I pray for your solace and togetherness at this time.
Wonderful person There when my Dad passed away Loved all his help when I were younger RIP Dr. Meads ❤
Sincere condolences to the Meads family. I have many wonderful memories of working with Meadsie in the OR at St. Joe’s for years. RIP
One of the finest human beings that I have ever known.
Dr. Ed Meads was member of a legendary group of surgeons at Western. The Dr. George Edgar Meads Teaching Award is awarded annually to the senior general surgery resident at Western for excellence in technical ability and teaching. He was a great colleague and friend, who supported the endeavours of others but never mentioned his own. We will miss him.
I worked on 4SW at St. Josephs with Dr. Meads many years ago. Dr. Meads was a very caring person with a great booming personality that matched his booming voice and presence. He was a great person to work with . My deepest sympathies for your loss
Dr. Meads was the epitome of a caring, wonderful surgeon and man. I was privileged to work with him for many years as an RN on 4SW and saw firsthand what his patients thought of him. We had many fun moments also stressful but he handled himself with dignity and grace. Love and prayers to his family ♥️
I was very sorry to learn of Dr. Meads' passing. He was a long-time friend of my father Frank. Dad played football with Dr. Meads (Meadsie) at Western. When my Dad passed away a few years ago, Dr. Meads was among the first to arrive at the funeral home. I've worked in medical education for many years. Whenever Dr. Meads' name came up in conversation it was always in reference to being the yardstick to which we should measure what a physician should be. He was a kind and gentle person who left an indelible impact on many.
Dr. Meads was my inspiration to become a Surgeon. He was a teacher, mentor and led by example. He taught us to stand on our own and was always there to pick you up when you were down. He saw us through a tough residency with a warm smile, and a laugh. His guidance can still be heard in my OR, "go son go", "mmm ... let me show you another way to do that". We have lost a gentle giant.
Make a donation
If you wish to make a donation, please consider one of the charities listed below. You will be taken to the charity's website to process your payment.
I just came across this notice but felt I wanted to say a little something about Dr Meads. I trained with him when I went to medical school at UWO many years ago. He was a wonderfully kind, humble, humorous, all around lovely person, and larger than life. Back then when surgery rotations and the surgeons that staffed them had a bit of a "rep" :) he was the exception. I enjoyed training under him so much it was one of my favourite rotations. I felt like I had won the lottery of surgery rotations. I have thought about him many times over the years. My condolences to all the family and friends that loved him, but I am glad to see he lived a long and happy life.
~ Janet Lawrence