Gordon E. Willard

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gordon E. Willard of Cambridge (Galt), on October 10, 2023 in his 92nd year. He was born May 10, 1932 in Toronto, and was a lifetime resident of Cambridge (Galt). Beloved husband of Patricia Willard (Kerr) for 67 years, and cherished father of Gary Willard (Donna) and Lynn Willard of Cambridge. Beloved grandfather of Robyn and Brooke (Tyler).

Gord was predeceased by his parents, H. Edward Willard and Doreen Willard (Hamlet), his sister Rosemary Ambrose and sister-in-law Mary-Lou Kerr. Gord is survived by his brothers-in-law Gordon Ambrose and Glen Kerr (Pauline) and a number of nieces and nephews.

Gord attended Central Public School and G.C.I. before joining the Navy in 1950. While stationed in Halifax, he met the love of his life, Pat, at a YMCA dance. They were married in 1956 and began their new family in Galt. He was an employee of Kerr Progress printing in Cambridge for many years until his retirement in 1992.

Gord was a long time and active member of First United Church until it’s amalgamation with Cedar Hill United Church. He was involved with many church activities over the years, including driving for PATER. Dad had a passion for barbershop singing. In the early 1970’s he joined the KW Twin City Harmonizers and went to many conventions and competitions over the decades. He also sang in the Second Career octet with members of the chorus. Many friendships were born here throughout the years. Travel was another passion. After their first cruise to Alaska, they were hooked! Many cruises and trips followed to various destinations around the world, often shared with family or friends. Dad loved to be active. In his younger days he was an avid curler and a member of the YMCA. Whether he was swimming, gardening, curling, or walking, he was always on the move. He enjoyed being out on the golf course with his many friends and was always quick to accept an invitation for a round of golf. Gord and Pat shared a passion hunting for treasures every Saturday morning at garage sales. In later years, they had a booth at the Freelton Antique Market to sell their wares.

Dad was also a member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 126, and recently received his 55-year member pin. In later years he returned to the H.M.C.S. Haida as a volunteer tour guide while it was docked in Hamilton.

Gord was young at heart, easy going and always willing to lend a hand. He loved being with his family as much as they enjoyed his company.

The family is so grateful for the compassionate care and support dad received while living at St. Andrews Terrace.

A Celebration of Life for Gordon will be held Friday, October 27, 2023 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Coutts Funeral Home & Cremation Centre, 96 St Andrews Street, Cambridge.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cambridge Memorial Hospital or the Canadian Cancer Society and may be shared at www.couttsfuneralhome.com for the Willard family.