March 5th, 1942 – February 9th, 2008
Gordon passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones after keeping his illness at bay for two wonderful years. Husband to Nancy, Brother to Jack, Father to Sara, (Don Sutton) and Robert, (Jessica Wing), Grandfather to his heart’s joy Cassidy, Tyler and Benjamin; in-law, cousin, nephew, confidant, boss and friend to many. Inspiration to all.
Born in Vancouver to Mary and Gordon Sr., Gordon started working at the age of 12 delivering groceries by bicycle. He spoke fondly of his teenage years, working as a caddy at the original Shaughnessy Golf Course and than later in the day heading over to Nat Bailey Stadium for evening games to sell peanuts and malts. Always intent on realizing his dreams he tried his hand as a mechanic, stock broker, CBC intern and mill worker. At the age of 21 while visiting the Bahamas he charmed his way into a front desk job of a new hotel. Quickly working his way up, it was here that Gord discovered his passion and natural skill as a host and hotel man. Upon his return to Vancouver, Gord immersed himself in the hotel industry becoming the assistant manager of The Hotel Vancouver.
Gord met his match, Nancy (Simpson), and they married on November 20, 1970, starting a whole new adventure. The Newlyweds moved to the Sunshine Coast where they managed and operated Lord Jim’s Lodge. Upon their return to Vancouver Gordon became the General Manager of The Blue Horizon Hotel and later The Georgian Towers. In 1977 Gordon relocated his young family to Victoria after a brief stint in Prince George. In Victoria Gord took over as the General Manager of the Colony Motor Inn. Quickly integrating himself into the community, Gordon served as President of the Victoria Tourism Board and was an active member of the Gyro and Capital City clubs for several years.
In 1983 Gord and Nancy decided to start their own business and Gordon became a Receiver General taking over 9 hotel properties throughout B.C. In 1986, Gordon and two partners opened The Monkey Tree Pub and one of the provinces first Cold Beer & Wine stores. In the early ’90’s Gordon became the sole proprietor of the ‘Pub’, in which he fostered a welcoming atmosphere and friendly community for both his staff and patrons. His expertise was recognized professionally as the elected President of the B.C. Pub Association and Director of the Victoria Zone for many years.
While the ‘Pub’ was popularly known as Gord’s home away from home, his proudest accomplishments are his children, Sara and Robert. He relished in their creative, athletic, professional and family successes and endeavours. An ecstatic Grandpa, he loved playing with his grandchildren and doing the silly Grandpa dance. He cherished warm days spent at the lake surrounded by his family. Gord and Nancy enjoyed travelling and loved to spend time in warm climates, especially over the last couple of years, finding the sun restorative and calming.
Gord was often consulted by peers, staff and others for advice on everything from business to life and love. He will be remembered as a bright spark, a truly special man who was well respected, maintained cherished friendships and was loved by many. He left us far too soon however Gordon always was one to follow his own path.
When I come to the end of the road,
And the sun has set for me,
I want no tears or gloom filled room,
Why cry fora soul set free.
Miss me a little but not too long
And not with your head bowed low,
Remember the love we all shared,
Miss me, but let me go.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to all of the care givers and medical staff who helped us throughout Gordon’s illness, and especially those from Hospice. To our friends, Thank You, you have shown us amazing support and love. Gordon would have loved the food!
A Gathering in Remembrance of Gordon’s Life will be held at 4025 Borden Street, Sunday, February 24, 2008, from 2-4 pm.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation on Gordon’s behalf to the Victoria Hospice Society, 1952 Bay St., Victoria BC, V8R 1J8. Stories and thoughts of remembrance may be sent to gcard@shaw.ca.
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