Gordon passed away peacefully at the age of 99 at Hospice in Victoria, BC. He was happy to know his family was there with him, to say goodbye to a humble man whose strength and courage ran deep and true. Born in Cumberland on Vancouver Island, adopted by parents from China, Gordon lived most his life in Victoria, BC.
He leaves behind his children; Ming (Linda), Tony (Marilyn), Brenda (Rick), Annette (Gerald), his grandchildren; Steven, Jeff, Stanley, Annalyn and Ryland, great grandchildren; Gwenyth, Austin, Hayes, Karmen and James. He leaves to mourn his longtime friend, Toni Clark, many nieces and nephews and countless comrades. Gordon was predeceased by his son, Steven, in 1977.
Gordon joined the Armed Forces during the Second World War at the age of 18. He was transferred to British Army into a special unit known as Force 136 landing in Burma, Southeast Asia. Gordon faced hardship and discrimination at a time when Chinese were not allowed to become Canadian Citizens. However, Gordon served with honour and pride to provide hope for future generations.
Gordon was discharged in 1946, eventually landing a job with the City of Victoria Parks Department as a mechanical foreman where he retired in 1991.
Gordon joined the Militia, around 1952, and rose to the rank of Master Warrant Officer, continuing his service until 1983 and retiring as Regimental Sergeant Major.
Gordon has had the privilege of representing Chinese Canadians in all facets, participating in Remembrance Day ceremonies, marching in the Victoria Day Parade and speaking to school children on behalf of all veterans who sacrificed their lives for a better future.
He is a lifetime member of the Royal Canadian Legion Britannia branch Number 7, was also active at the Broadmead Veterans Centre where he enjoyed time with fellow veterans. He was fortunate to meet many dignitaries including the Queen of England and Prince William. Thank you to the staff at the centre for many years of wonderful memories. We are truly grateful.
We would like to thank the community at Ross Place for his 15 plus years filled with love, fun and adventure. He made many good friends there and participated in all their activities right up to the very last day. Thank you to Hospice for providing exceptional care during his final rest with us.
A Celebration of Gordon’s Life will be held at 2:00pm on Saturday, January 17th, 2026, at McCall Gardens in the Sequoia Centre, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria BC V8Y 1B4.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Hospice.
Rest in peace Dad… your legacy will continue in all those you’ve touched.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
This obituary is the property of the “Quan” family and may not be reproduced, distributed, or altered in any way without prior written consent.
-
Dave and Joan (Minter) Smirl
-
Ida Chong Gordon will be remembered and missed. I will always be grateful for the many dinners we shared at various events and the luncheons that I was invited to on several Remembrance Days. When he shared his wartime stories he did so humbly and with purpose. My deepest sympathies to the entire family.
-
RSM Joseph Styles Thank you Mr. Quan for your service to our great country and home Canada. Your commitment and sacrifice mean more than could have ever have been appropriately expressed to you. Having only read your story, and your journey as a Canadian committed to the service of this Country even during a period where you were not recognized as you should have been, I find myself truly inspired. Your life inspires hope, strength, courage and compassion. You were the embodiment of Service before Self. Thank you Mr. Quan, you will be missed and you will be remembered.
– York Regional Police RSM Joseph Styles
-
Darlene Ricketts Brenda, so sorry to hear about your legendary dad passing. Your dad lived a great and long life with grace and dignity, you should be incredibly proud of him. With the upcoming Remembrance Day ceremonies I will bow and pause and thank Mr. Gordon Quan for his service to our country and community. RIP
-
Richard N. Liu, MStJ With condolences to the family. Had the sincerest privilege of virtually meeting RSM (Retd) Gordon Quan, MMM, CD just a few months ago at a special ceremony.
I will pause to especially remember him during this year’s Remembrance Day service in Chinatown.
Thank you for your service and dedication to our country, sir.
Lest We Forget.
-
Susanne & Keith Phillips It was a true pleasure to meet your dad, Annette. He was a genuinely kind, gentle and humble man. And he showed great courage and grace despite discrimination. I have no doubt he was a great dad. Keith and I offer our heartfelt condolences to you and your whole family. May he always stay in your hearts.
-
Annette Quan Though you are no longer with us, the memories we hold of you are like treasured cards in a beloved game. Your spirit, wisdom and laughter enriched our lives in ways we will always cherish. At 99, you played the game of life with unmatched grace, leaving behind a legacy of love and joy. We will carry your vibrant spirit in our hearts, remembering the warmth you brought to every gathering. Thank you for the beautiful moments and lessons you shared. We will miss you. Love you Dad.
-
Melody Pan We will remember you
Your father was a special man. I feel, fortunate to have known him and thankful your family were our neighbors at Elk Lake. What an amazing and remarkable life your Dad lived. Please accept our heartfelt condolences to your family.