ST. JOHN'S DRUM & BUGLE CORPS ALUMNI

From an article in the Brantford Expositor, contributed by Glen and Peggy Mellor (Davidson)

"George Mellor lived in Brantford for many years, working on the line in the farm equipment plants, and becoming an assistant foreman and general foreman. In that, he had much in common with a great many residents who worked hard, raised their families and were, and are, good citizens. But Mr. Mellor was also a co-founder of the St. John's Girls Drum Corps, and its director, drill instructor and mainstay for some 25 years. In that, he made a unique contribution to the life of the community.

In those years, the drum corps went from obscure and tentative beginnings to national and international competitions, and victories. It became one of the institutions that defined this city, a source of pride for all citizens.
During those years, the Mellor family "vacations" often consisted of trips to drum and bugle corps competitions in Canada and the United States. Always, Mr. Mellor was a strong guiding spirit and positive influence in the lives of hundreds of young people. A daughter recalls that he always looked out for "his girls".

On Sept. 20, Mr. Mellor died suddenly in Fenelon Falls, where he had lived in recent years. He was just 59 years old.
Other citizens have had more successful and prominent careers. But no other citizen will be so warmly remembered by so many of "his girls". George Mellor was one of those unselfish men who do so much for others. Their deaths are occasions to mourn. Their lives remain with all those who knew them, as something to celebrate. "

In the 1960's George's skill as a drill instructor gained recognition in the M&M category for the corps' "snappy drill".

In addition to being corps director, in 1974 he took on the position of Chairman for the Canadian Drum Corps Association Nationals committee and also received a special Award of Merit from the CDCA.

George retired as Corps Director in 1976 but continued his involvement with the Executive Committee as Executive Director. Holding the position of Honorary Chairman in 1977 George returned as Interim Corps Director in 1978.

George's daughter Gail Redmond (Mellor) and his daughter-in-law Peggy Mellor (Davidson) were members of the corps during his tenure. His wife Goldie was one of his biggest supporters during his years with the corps.

George earned the respect of many marching members and peers and left his mark in the drum corps community.

1st photo - attending the 35th Anniversary

2nd photo - George is seen with the corps post-performance, leaning on the fence mugging for the camera.

3rd photo - pictured with Irene Pacyk and Mary Cook

4th photo - with Joy Hagan at the 1977 Awards Banquet

5th photo - with wife Goldie receiving a gift of appreciation from Kelly Pratt and Sue Monarch (Hinsley)

6th photo - Attending the 1978 Awards Banquet

7th photo - Performing with Board members at 1975 Talent Night

L-R - Bill Martin, Tom Collard, George Mellor, Cecil Earl, Bob Earl