Funny, kind, strong, beloved Frank Gower died in the early morning of October 21, 2018 in Victoria, B.C. after suffering a massive stroke. Frank was born in Victoria on April 10, 1926, the youngest of seven. There were few sports he didn’t play. He knew how to grow a garden, fix anything, teach math to reluctant youth, and make any kid feel natural, whether by being silly or getting down on the floor to play.
His students remember Mr. Gower as a tough but fair teacher; his sports teams affectionately called him Guppy for the way his eyes bugged out when displeased.
Frank captained a Canadian squad against the New Zealand All Blacks and carried a love of rugby through his life, whether playing (into his 70’s), coaching or refereeing. He travelled to play rugby, and to enjoy and learn about the world and was a six-month volunteer in
refugee camps in Africa in his 60’s. Frank went to plays, concerts and the opera. He sailed, hiked and taught us the beauty of nature.
Frank was an active member of Emmanuel Baptist church, the Odd Fellows Lodge, the James Bay Athletic Association and Sylvan Acres camp. He gave the best hugs. He read a lot. He was a person of integrity and great love and all that just scratches the surface of Frank Gower.
He died as he lived, surrounded by loving and loved family, including his wife of 61 years, Linda (nee Maddaford). He was the father of Katherine (Henry Baade), Frances (Bruce Hawker), Michael (Julie McClung), Sheila (Rob Martin); grandfather of Tristan (Alice), James (Megan), Elizabeth, Rosalie, Kristel (Matthew), Jeffrey (Debbie), Emma (David), Lucy, Jonathan, William, Ellen; great-grandfather of Isaac, Hannah, Anya, Tessa, India, Maria, Ava, George.
Frank is also survived by his sisters-in-law Dorothy Gower, Doris and brother-in-law Berk Maddaford, and numerous nieces, nephews and some of his cousins – all important to him and well-loved. Predeceased by father William and mother Mable, brothers James, Richard, George, Roy, and sisters Emma and Inez. Gower Park in Fernwood commemorates Frank’s family at the location of their home.
Mourn not for Me
Mourn not for me in blacks and greys
With solemn songs and stiffly circled flowers.
Creep not for me in sombre cars
catlike to the graveyard.
For I would die as I have lived –
Cheerfully.
Yes, let there be flowers.
Bright cheeky snaps or marguerites
or daisy mums with dancing leaves
or marigolds.
“Sing out for me, O King…”
Then let them toss the lot to flame
and scatter ashes where they may.
Don’t stay…
For I have loved this lively world
especially the spritely things –
I cannot bear
to give you pain.
We’ll meet again.
-Poem By: Rita Hammett
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
33 Responses
Frank was my grade 11 math teacher in 1973 and rugby coach in 1973 & 1974. He was a giant in the classroom – inspiring curiosity and confidence in all of his students. On the rugby pitch he taught us about teamwork, comradery, fair play, respect for our opponents, and focus. We won the BC High School Rugby Championship because of what he taught us about ourselves. Frank / “Guppy” helped to shape and guide many generations of students and athletes — the world is a little bit worse for wear with his passing. My thoughts, prayers and best wishes go out to all members of “the Gower family”.
Frank was one of the people who made a real difference to me in my life. Although I can look back now to a successful career and a happy and rewarding life, I can tell you that I needed help along the way.
Frank was both a teacher and coach and also a personal friend before I went to Oak Bay High School. He was a contemporary of my parents at Vic High and a neighbour on Madrona Dive in North Saanich. As a chubby boy coming from a boy’s school into the wide open world of a high school that was bursting in to the sixties, I was more than a little apprehensive. He took me under his wing and recognized (maybe the only one to do so) that I might have a place in the OBHS rugby team. I played my first game in the middle of the scrum at age 14… Somehow I survived and went on to captain the side in Grade 12. Rugby has been my game ever since and after 17 years of top class rugby in two provinces, and a successful and exciting career as a marine consultant, I now feel along way from that chubby and timid young boy entering a daunting place like OBHS.
As it happens Catherine, my wife of 43 years, lived across the street from Frank and Linda and their family when she went to Oak Bay and she also has a family as well as a school connection. Although we have lived n Newfoundland for many years, we have managed to see them from time to time since we left Victoria. Most memorable were the meal we shared on St. John’s Harbour and then meeting them both in Victoria in June, 2018, when I attended my 50th High School reunion.
Frank I am so glad that I had both the opportunity and the courage to tell you personally that you made a difference in my life. I miss you.
Tears,
Jim
What a lovely man! So sorry he’s gone from this world.
Sheila and Rob and family – so very sorry to hear that you have lost your beloved dad, he was clearly a very lovely man. Thinking of you both.
The James Bay Athletic Association passes on condolences to Linda and all the Gower Family on the passing of Frank. Frank was a long time member of the club; a player, a coach, an officer and an avid supporter for so many years. He will be missed. He was a touchstone to an era gone by. JBAA will observe a moment of silence in honour of Frank before tomorrow’s premier league match.
Linda and family…We were saddened to hear of Franks passing, our sincere condolences to all.
Malcolm and Pam Verley
So sorry, Sheila and family for the loss of your beloved dad. I had him as a teacher at Oak Bay back in the day. May all your fond memories comfort you at this sad and difficult time.
We are thinking of your family at this difficult time. I remember your dad at the Oddfellows Lodge leading the kids in games and receiving their gifts from Santa Claus. He was a friendly happy man. Take care. Love Carene and Angus
How wonderful is the written expansive view of the vast compilation of Frank’s life engagement. He truly was a blessing of joy in many lives reaching into all generations. May the celebrations of his life bring family and friends together in sacred moments of shared remembrance and meaning. Peace and Prayers.
My thoughts are with you at this time.