Gord passed away suddenly at his home with his wife Kathy at his side. Gord was born in Ottawa, Ontario and resided in Almonte, Ontario for most of his youth. He was predeceased by his father Bruce. He is survived by Kathy, his wife of 46 years, son Graham [Kim], daughter Amy [Jeromy], dear grandson Nash, mother Polly, sisters Karen, Bunny [Kent], Jennifer, brother Rick [Chris], many nieces, nephews, and numerous in-laws.
Gord and Kathy moved to Victoria in 1976 and raised their family. Gord was a chartered accountant and worked in private practice for several years before joining the government and working in the Ministry of Finance. He had retired in 2017. Gord was a quiet gentle man who loved his family, would do anything for a friend, was modest and unassuming and never wanted to make a fuss.
His coworkers admired his knowledge, his practicality, and his frugalness. He loved road trips, history, reading and collecting sports cards, coins, stamps and looking out for a hot bargain. He and Kathy drove from Victoria to Newfoundland last summer which was a highlight for him.
The family would like to thank the first responders, paramedics and the Oak Bay police department for their professionalism, expertise and caring manner.
No service as requested by Gord and the family will inter his remains at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations would be welcome to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
20 Responses
My sympathy to Kathy and family.
I worked with Gord for almost 5 years before he retired. Whenever I had a question that no-one else seemed able to answer, I would ask Gord. I can’t remember one occasion when he ever refused even though he was usually really busy and he wasn’t my supervisor. He always made time. He usually had an answer or was able to point me in the right direction; his knowledge and ability to recall facts and figures was remarkable – and very accurate. From time to time Gord would generously provide a pizza lunch for our group, which was always appreciated.
Several years ago my mother had hip replacement surgery and needed 3 months of rehab. I started going to visit her after work every day – an extra trip by bus, and it made for a long day. Unexpectedly, Gord would from time to time stop by my desk at the end of the day and offer me a ride. Thanks Gord, but I’m going to the hospital. No problem, he would say.
I have to say that what I will really miss is his sense of humour. Several months after his retirement I found him at the front door of the office trying to talk his way in. I laughed at him and brought him up to our floor. All the way into our area he lectured me about breaking security by allowing a non-employee (him) into the building, which of course didn’t stop him from visiting with his former co-workers.
From time to time Gord would talk about family road trips, his daughter’s job in another province and the Emails his son had sent him. He was over the moon with his grandchild. Above all, it was apparent that Kathy was the centre of Gord’s universe.
Smart, generous, compassionate, and a sense of humour; definitely a co-worker to remember. Gord will be missed.
Dear Kathy and Family. Our most sincere condolences on Gord’s passing. He was a good friend and I will miss our lunches. He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during these very difficult times.
Denis and Bev
Dear Kathy and Family,
Our sincere condolences to you after Gords passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Linda Mills and Family (Almonte, Ontario)
Dear Kathy and family,
Our sympathies to you on Gord’s sudden passing.
The details about his activities over the years indicate he lived a full life. I’m sure he will be remembered well by family and friends.
John and Anna Burke
Dear Kathy, Graham and Amy
We are still trying to come to grips with Gord’s passing. He was always there as a big brother (in-law) and, despite the distance, friend. He will be missed.
Bunny and Kent
I was saddened to hear of Gordie’s passing, my sympathies to his family.
Gordie was a member of our Euchre club back at Almonte High School, and we passed many happy hours studying the fine art of card playing.
Dear Kathryn and family. Dave and I are so very sorry to hear of your loss. You all have a very special Angel looking out for you. All of the memories you’ve created will hug you all with love. Sending Love and hugs to you all. Dave and Karen Minor
Dear Kathy and Family,
I am so sorry to hear of Gord’s passing. My sincere sympathy and condolences on your loss.
Dear Kathryn , Graham and Amy. We were very sorry to hear of Gords passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time of sorrow. Rest In Peace Gord.
Dear Kathy and Family
Our sincere sympathy in the sudden passing of Gord. We offer our thoughts and prayers
to you and the family.