Joseph Norman “George” Devlin died in June 2026 at home with his immediate family. He was suddenly terminally ill with myeloma and kidney failure and chose MAID to end on his own terms.
George was born in 1939 in Edmonton, Alberta to his parents Norman and Rachelle Devlin. He is survived by his children Christopher Devlin (and Claire Handley) and Heather Lang (and Richard Lang), his grandchildren Joshua Lang, Kalina Lang, and Liam Devlin, and his sisters Rosemarie Thompson, Doreen Snopek and Geraldine Hetherington, and many nieces and nephews. George was predeceased by his wife of 53 years, Cathie Devlin in January 2026. George moved to Victoria in 1953 and graduated from Vic High. He served in the RCMP from 1959 to 1964 in Alberta and then moved back to Victoria permanently. He married Cathie (nee Watson) in 1966. He received his real estate agent’s license and with two partners founded the Concord group of companies in the 1960’s. He created the landmark Miniature World attraction in the Empress Hotel in 1971 as well as several retail shops. George also served on various boards, including the Esquimalt Police Board, the Victoria Attractions Association, and the St Michael’s University School Board of Governors. In 2000, he built and operated Cathie’s Cottage at Chesterman Beach. In 2017, he liquidated his business holdings to care for Cathie as she entered the final years of living with dementia.
“Dad” was a cherished soul and mentor to his family, friends and neighbourhood children. He crafted cardboard boxes into majestic play homes, lined with carpet, wallpaper, windows and more. Sealed with a selfless heart of gold, it was a magical dwelling that hosted hours of endless play. Children flocked to our “safe” house where snacks were plenty, hugs were given, and love flourished. The time he devoted to our youth created a community of secure, happy children,
There are two legacies left behind for future generations. The “Mini” World within his home, and “Miniature World” within our community. Both inspired all ages to create, dream and build a future together as one. We honor your well-lived life and are beyond grateful for the years of unconditional love. May God be with you, now, and forever.
A Memorial Service will be held in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC V8Y 1B4 on August 8th, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.
Flowers and cards are welcome and can be sent care of McCall Gardens.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens
This obituary is the property of the “Devlin” family and may not be reproduced, distributed, or altered in any way without prior written consent.
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David Robinson, Esquimalt to New Zealand
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Ray Snopek Uncle George’s belief in me and his constant encouragement shaped the person I am today. Roxanne and I have always looked up to him and Aunt Cathie as the ultimate example of how to balance successful careers while keeping family at the center of everything. We will miss his warmth and guidance terribly.
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Ruth Violet George was the most solid husband to my dear friend, Cathie. I appreciate all the support he did for her in her last years. So glad George had the send off he wanted in his own home. Words can’t really express the feelings of both of them being gone. So glad he had the loving, caring children and grand children he deserved. Hugs to you all.
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Randy Hetherington Uncle George and Aunt Cathie were loved and respected by family, friends and community. Having the opportunity to reminisce and say goodbye was Uncle George’s final gift to us and we so appreciated it. He left quite a legacy and Chris, Heather and the their families will carry that forward in their own way. Uncle George is with us forever in our memories.
A man who expanded our world in miniature and then filled it with boundless inspiration to our creative imaginations. Thank you Mr D for including this Robinson and sharing the whole of the Devlin family with ours. You are fondly remembered, and your legacy shall live on to inspire tomorrow’s children & dreamers all.