In Memoriam

The Reverend Arthur James Griffin
1921-2021
 
Art passed away at the age of 100 at his home in Kitsilano, Vancouver on November 23, 2021. He was predeceased by his wife, Pearl, as well as two of his children, Nancy and Bruce. He is survived by his loving sons, Dale and Scott; his daughters-in-law Carol, Lynda and Jennifer; his seven grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.

Art was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba. After a childhood filled with winter sports and choir singing, he travelled to Vancouver in 1939 with a boys' cricket team for the National Junior Cricket Tournament at Brockton Point. He fell in love with the beaches, the year-round cricketing weather, and in time, his bride Pearl. After working as a piano tuner at Kelly's Music in Vancouver and serving in the RCAF in World War II, Art completed an undergraduate degree at UBC and a Divinity degree at Union College (winning the gold medal in Theology) before joining the clergy of the United Church of Canada. Through his long career, Art passionately preached the gospel of social justice and spread his compassionate and inclusive view of the church community at Port Kells United Church, Failsworth Methodist (Manchester, England), Cedar Cottage (Vancouver), Trinity (Port Coquitlam), St. Stephens (Edmonton), Brechin (Nanaimo), First United Church (Vancouver) and St. Andrew's (Mission). In retirement, Art enjoyed the warm community he found at West Point Grey United Church.

He will be remembered by all for his musicality, sincere kindness and unfailing good humour.

A memorial service will be announced shortly. 

- Source: Pacific Mountain Regional Council
The United Church of Canada