Tributes are being paid to former Onchan MHK and Legislative Council Member George Waft, who has died at the age of 89.
Waft was an Onchan MHK from 1991-1994, when he joined the Legislative Council, a position he retained until 2010. He served on a number of government departments and was chair of the Civil Service Commission from 1996-2004.
He was also President of the Onchan Branch of the Royal British Legion and was an Onchan Commissioner for 20 years.
The RBL Onchan branch said it was with “great sadness” that it announced the “passing of our dear friend and President”.
“George was a highly respected member of the Onchan community,” a spokesperson said.
“After training at the Isle of Man College of Further Education, the Naval Training School and the Nurse Training School, he served as a catering officer with various naval companies before working for the DHSS for 30 years.
“George joined the Royal British Legion Onchan Branch in 1998 and became President five years ago. He was a caring, compassionate and greatly valued member whose kindness and support will be deeply missed.
“Our heartfelt condolences go to his wife, Lynn, and to all his family and friends.”
Dedication and Commitment
Onchan MHK Rob Callister has paid tribute to Waft, who served on Onchan Commissioners for 20 years, including two stints as chair.
Callister said: “When I was first considering standing in the 2011 by-election for Onchan District Commissioners, George was generous with his time and offered me a great deal of sensible and sound advice.
“He did the same again when I was considering standing for the House of Keys in 2016. George always had a kind word to say, and I genuinely enjoyed our conversations over the years, particularly on Remembrance Sunday when we would often share a cup of tea and put the world to rights.”
Callister added: “He served our community with dedication and commitment, and I know that many people across Onchan and the wider Isle of Man will be saddened by his passing.
“My thoughts and condolences are with George’s family and friends at this difficult time.”