Dr. Arthur George Shaw Shimizu, age 93, passed away peacefully at his home in Jordan Station, in the arms of loved ones after a prolonged illness on Thursday, Oct. 20, 2022. Beloved husband of the late Audrey Bernice Shimizu (nee Norrington). Loving father of Francine Shimizu-Orgar (Randy Orgar) and Jill Shimizu-Lunn (Ryan Lunn), honorary "brother" of Shane (Mary) Wardle. Sadly missed by his grandchildren; Mackenzie-Anne Gourlay, Ronan Arthur Obee-Shimizu, Audrey Bernice Winterstein, and Molly Wilson-Lunn. Predeceased by his sister Mary Kondo and granddaughter Heather Winterstein. He was a loving grandfather to all his grandchildren, showering them with love, kindness, and encouragement until the last of days. They were his pride and joy.
Dr. Shimizu was a professor of clinical medicine at McMaster University who specialized in nephrology and was a pioneer in starting the Dialysis Unit in the Niagara Region. He was an instrumental teacher in the development of medical education both pre and post-graduate in the region. He taught many trainees who are now actively practising around the world. He also had a dream of medical equality for Indigenous Peoples and worked to help accomplish this throughout his career.
Arthur was an avid photographer, patron of the arts, and enjoyed dining out with family and friends in his retirement. His philanthropic way helped so many people and causes, i.e. patient support programs, Indigenous arts/programming, and services for those in need. His genius and compassion should never be forgotten. Our father's contributions to humanity, and his empathy for those less fortunate set an example for everyone that touched his life. He will be greatly missed by his family, his support and the community. Please remember him in your prayers and know that he is surrounded by loved ones now and no longer suffers. From heaven, he will guide us as he has joined the ancestors. We are grateful for the selfless life he lived.
Donations to Niagara Health Indigenous Services would be appreciated.