December 12th, 1934 – September 21st, 2013
Nels Gordon Johnson, born in High River, Alberta on December 12, 1934, died peacefully at home on September 21st, 2013. He is survived by his wife Lois, with whom he shared his life for nearly 50 years; their two sons, Perry and Todd; and grandchildren Julian, Dante and Sophia. Gordon is predeceased by his parents Edwin and Emmy, and his siblings Stena, Allan and Scandy.
Growing up in HighRiver, Gordon was passionate about flying, sailing and most of all, singing. During these formative years he sang as a soloist at many events, giving rise to his lifelong passion for music. In 1963 he graduated with a BSc (Pharmacy) from the University of Alberta where he met his classmate and future wife, Lois. His distinguished 28-year career as Pharmacy Director of a group of long-term care hospitals in Calgary earned him an Honorary Life Membership from the Alberta Pharmacy Association for his outstanding contributions. In 2011 he was chosen to receive a Centennial Award of Distinction, which was established to mark 100 years of regulated pharmacy.
Throughout his life Gordon shared his rich voice with the High River United Church Choir, Calgary Philharmonic Chorus and Chamber choirs, Cathedral Church of the Redeemer Choir, and ultimately on retirement to Victoria, with the Oak Bay United Church Choir. Gordon felt greatly privileged to have made so many wonderful friends, especially through the OakBayUnitedChurch community. He held a deep love for family and friends, and showed a genuine interest in all people who came into his life.
The family wishes to send a heartfelt thanks to all our friends for their prayers and support. We are also grateful for the compassionate care of Hospice and the ALS Society and medical teams. Through them and his caregiver Bill, Gordon was able to maintain his grace and dignity during his last days.
Memorial service is at the Oak Bay United Church on Tuesday, Oct 1st at 2pm. Donations in his memory may be made to the ALS Society of BC (Victoria Chapter), Box 48038, 3511 Blanshard St, Victoria, V8Z 7H5.
McCall Bros Funeral Home
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Bonnie Walkeden Gerlitz
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Dennis Shellenberg I just received the Pharmacy Alumni Newsletter and learned of “Swedes” passing. I shared many adventures with Gord while we were at the U of A. Unfortunately our careers took totally different paths and we lost contact. I regret that as he was a good friend and I remember out time together as students with great joy.
I would like to pass on my condolences to Lois and family.
Dennis Shellenberg B.Sc. (Pharm) ’62
Lois and family,our deepest condolences for your loss. I don’t know if you will receive this at such a late date. I tried to find you and Gordon for mom and dads 50 th anniversary. We have such fond memories of your family living on the same street. We lost mom in 2009.