Passed away peacefully at home with family close by. Gordon was predeceased by Annie, his wife whom he met in Glace Bay and shared a strong loving partnership in marriage for 62 years. Gordon is survived by his children, Kimberly Anne (John van Gorp), Mary Lou (David Rawlinson), George (Susan), Michelle (Charles Lynn) and Philip and grandchildren; Sarah, Peter and Katelyn, Christopher and Alex, Eric and Michael, and Samantha and Nathan.
Born and raised in Louisbourg in Cape Breton, NS, Gordon attended Mount Allison University before being called to the ministry and attending Pine Hill Divinity Hall. As a minister for the United Church of Canada, Gordon received calls that saw him offer care, hope, promise, comfort and support to many from coast to coast across Canada. After student ministry in Saskatchewan and Bermuda, Gordon began a long career in New Brunswick that then saw him taking on calls in Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Lower Sackville, Edmonton and finally Victoria, BC where he and Annie retired. Aside from an endless level of patience and compassion, Gordon also developed a reputation for helping congregations with special projects that would help grow and strengthen the communities these churches supported.
Gordon, true to his heritage, was a great storyteller and was often a wee bit late to his next appointment because he had a story to share that would offer comfort, a smile or a laugh to those who needed it. Gordon will be remembered by the thousands whose hearts he touched, whose souls he succoured, whose spirits he lifted every day.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
28 Responses
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. We often think of the times Gordon spent here in Lower Sackville, Nova Scotia. When he announced that he was leaving Knox Church, I remember our daughter exclaiming “How are we going to have a church without Rev. Cain”.
May the memories he leaves you; bring you peace.
Hi MaryLou, Kim, George, Michelle, Philip and families. It has been years since Gordon was at Knox, but he and Anne made a very powerful presence and contribution to the life of our church. I became a member of Knox because of Gordon and his messages. He was a remarkable man and you are all a true testament to his life and work. May God bring you strength through this and keep him alive in your hearts and memories always. Linda
Sue and I wish to offer our most sincere condolences to the Cann family. Gordon was our neighbour for many years. He was one of the kindest soft spoken men we ever met. His friendly smile and cordial laugh are warmly remembered. But he could sometimes have a mischievous twinkle in his eye, especially when he was telling one of his many stories. We always looked forward to seeing him saunter up the street for a visit and friendly chat. Gordon and his wife Anne were always welcome and made a beautiful, loving couple. Gordon remains in our thoughts and will be sorely missed. Gordon, rest In peace with Anne by your side.
You are in our thoughts and prayers. We are so sorry for the loss of your dad. It’s a hard event in your lives and maybe it’s hard to feel anything but the sad parts. We sincerely pray that you will remember all the wonderful times you had together…the joy your familial relationships give you….and when you remember that happiness……you can know how much joy was experienced at the reunion of your mom and dad beyond the veil. Lots of love…take care of each other…be gentle and kind. Love you…carol
Mary Lou and family, so sorry to hear of Gordon’s passing. We have fond memories from our association with him at First Met, his smile, great sense of humour and his dedication. He will indeed be missed.
As a fellow Maritimer we were delighted to meet Gordon and Annie at Cordova Bay United Church especially when we discovered we had many mutual friends and acquaintances. We loved his stories and the messages they carried. He will be sorely missed.
So sorry to hear the passing of Gordon. It is never easy to lose a love one. I met Gordon when my best friend married his son. Both he and Annie were so sweet to me. Sending my thoughts , prayers and love to George. Susan . Eric and Michael, Mary Lou , Kim and all their families , and to the other family members. I know Annie is waiting Sincere Condolences.
Oh those GREAT years at Knox when Gordon was our Minister, and the rest of the family were our friends (and babysitters). Anne was a model of a caring person, and caring nurse, and perfect partner for Gordon
Remember the old manse ? Pat, Jean and others spent weeks trying to make a silk purse out of it before the Canes arrived. Wallpaper was IN then, and it covered the sins of a lot of years
Gordon’s ability to make you feel good, and to make you laugh was exceptional. When he visited us back here in N S in recent years, he still had that ability! and it was a joy to see he and Anne occasionally
A life well lived and a blessing to many !
Pat and Don Farmer
Your Dad was (with others) instrumental in my call to ministry. I also have many great memories of him and he taught me a lot in the years that he was at St. Andrew’s-Norwood in Saint Laurent. I still have books that he gave me when he was moving on to Edmonton. I am sorry for your loss but celebrate the great human being and great minister that he has been for so many and am glad to count myself among those people.
Good day family,
It is with heavy heart that I write this condolence – Philip advised me of your dad’s passing. Your mom and dad accepted me into your family simply because I was Phil’s cousin. The warmth and generosity they showed to a poor starving college student was greatly appreciated and the love they had for each other was a great inspiration. Please accept mine and Deb’s sincere condolences – mom and dad are together in Glory…