On Sunday, February 16, 2020, Dr. Gordon Keith Dimock, aged 88, passed away peacefully in the care of Victoria’s Royal Jubilee Hospital, surrounded by his family. Gord was the youngest of three children, born on December 5, 1931 in Windsor, Nova Scotia, to Dr. Karl Keith and Louise (McKeen) Dimock.
Gord (Gordie) was predeceased by his sister, Jean Gwendolyn Fuller, and brother, John Shubael Dimock, wives Patricia (McAvity) and Judith Ellen (McLean), as well as his son, Karl David McLean Dimock.
Gord was described as a curious, bright and adventurous child who was skilled in the art of chore avoidance. One of his enduring and endearing qualities was his sense of humour and ability to laugh at himself.
After graduating high school, he attended Acadia University, his beloved alma mater. He couldn’t have been prouder when three of his grandchildren from the west coast, Gordon, Jacob and Hailey, chose to attend Acadia as well. Gord went on to medical school at Dalhousie University to become a general practitioner.
Shortly after starting his general practice in Blacks Harbour, New Brunswick, Gord met and married the love of his life, Judy. Within that community, they shared some of their happiest memories. Their four children were born and the McLean family embraced him into their clan as one of their own. Gord established a successful private practice and was proud of his involvement in building Blacks Harbour’s first hospital.
Gord’s adventurous spirit led him to pack-up his family of six and head for the west coast in the early 70s. The journey was an undertaking with many pitfalls, including 17 flat tires and a succession of calamities that provided fodder for future tales.
Once in Vancouver, Gord took a position with the Department of National Health and Welfare. As part of a medical team, he attended to the needs of many BC remote communities, often travelling on float planes, horseback and boats throughout the province.
After five years working for the government, Gord returned to general practice, relocating the family in Stettler, Alberta and eventually settling in Sooke, BC. Gord remained a proud “maritimer” who made annual treks back east with Judy to visit family and friends.
Despite significant losses and personal challenges, Gord never lost his faith in God. Regardless of his accomplishments, Gord avoided the spotlight and remained modest, preferring to redirect conversation towards others.
Gord was a beloved family doctor throughout his career. He had an attentive and kind bedside manner and took a genuine interest in each and every one of his patients. It was common for Dr. Dimock to make house calls after hours and often long into the evenings. His gentlemanly manner extended well beyond his professional role towards all of those around him.
Gord had a passion for sports of all kinds. In his youth, he played hockey, curled and golfed and as he aged, was the consummate armchair sports fan. His infectious enthusiasm often resulted in exuberant outbursts of joy or dismay. He could often be heard watching sports from blocks away. Gord enjoyed life’s pleasures – good food, music, and sharing laughs brought him and others so much joy.
In retirement, Gord and Judy enjoyed travelling throughout the world, often generously including extended family in their adventures.
After Judy’s passing, Gord settled in Victoria at the Victorian and Parkwood Place Retirement Homes. Gord’s armchair recliner was well worn and the TV remained tuned to the latest sporting event.
Gord is survived by his children; Danny (Bev), Cathy (Dave), (Tammi), and Andrew (Patrick), grandchildren; Ryan, Kyle, Jessica, Conor, Gord, Cole, Jacob, Emery, Sam, and Hailey, great grandchild; Nikko as well as many nieces and nephews. He loved his family deeply and never ceased to pray for their happiness and well being. He will be dearly missed.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
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58 Responses
Condolences, prayers and blessings, especially to Danny and Cathy. I have fond childhood ‘patient’ memories of “Dr. Dimock”, remember him as a big, yet gentle man.
My Sympathy to the Dimock family Gord was a good friend to so many, I enjoyed the times spent with him.
He was charming and funny, he really got ‘into the Game’ watching Sports on T.V.
R.I.P. my friend.
Dear Kathy, Dave and Family,
So sorry to hear of the passing of your Dad.
My deepest condolences to you.
Take Care,
Barb Kuyvenhoven
What a delightful Doctor he was and I had the pleasure of working with him as a community nurse in Sooke for several years, always smiling, calm and supportive he was. RIP Dr. Dimock.
My sincere sympathy to the Dimock family. As an adult, I remember your dad as having tremendous personal charm, warmth, intelligence and a great sense of fun and adventure. As a child, however, I was keenly aware of a special twinkle in your dad’s eye and his amazing ability to connect with everyone (including kids). Your dad’s compassionate heart and boisterous spirit touched so many over the years.
Wishing you all comfort at this difficult time.
My condolences to Dr. Dimock’s family. Saying goodbye to a Dad is so very sad; but you do have your memories to comfort you now and later. As others have very well said, he was a great and caring family doctor. He certainly was excellent with my family if we were sick or got hurt. Fond memories indeed. Bless you all.
I am very sorry to hear that your father is no longer with us. As a child, I have many fond memories of him as a boisterous, humorous and caring person. Best wishes to everyone.
Sincere condolences to the Dimock family so sorry for your loss, my mother always spoke very highly of him