Gordon Beirnes

Donald Gordon Beirnes passed peacefully, surrounded by his family. Gordon leaves behind his loving wife of 44 years, Cathy, and his two sons, Chris (Nancy) and Stephen (Breena), his brother Rob (Brandy), his cherished grandchildren: Hannah, Cole, Hailey and Avery, along with his extended family and many friends.

Gord was pre-deceased by his mother, Gwen Graesser, stepfather Ed Graesser, and biological father Jack Beirnes.

Gord was born in Edmonton at the U of A Hospital and raised in the Garneau area. He went on to attend the University of Alberta, receiving an honours degree in history in 1966. He had finished his last year in university newly married to Joanne, with a newborn son, Chris. Gord at 21, with his young family, began working with the Federal Government as an employment counsellor. Gordon and Joanne divorced in 1976 and he spent several years as a single father.

In 1981 Gord met Cathy. It was a whirlwind romance and they were married in 8 months. He had found the love of his life. Soon afterwards Gord welcomed his second son, Stephen into his life with Cathy and Chris. As a proud parent, Gord enjoyed many wonderful years raising Stephen with Cathy.

After a successful and rewarding career of almost 28 years, helping thousands of people find productive employment, Gord opted for an early pension and then began working with Goodwill for several more years. After finally retiring, Gord renewed his passion for music playing trumpet and ukulele with several bands in the Edmonton area while creating an online presence with his music. He often remarked how nice it was for him if he could make someone else’s day a little happier with some music. Gord and Cathy enjoyed travelling. Whether it was a tour through Europe or a weekend getaway to the Canadian Rockies, these shared experiences will be fondly remembered.

Throughout his life many other wonderful memories were of times at the family cabin on Pigeon Lake. Birthdays, holidays and weekends were often at the cabin surrounded by family, friends and fun. Gord was much loved. He will be greatly missed.

A celebration of life will be held at the OSPAC - Old Strathcona Performing Arts Centre, 8426 - Gateway Boulevard NW Edmonton, AB July 5 at 11:00 AM, followed by a reception.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cosmopolitan Music Society. Donate In Tribute — Cosmopolitan Music Society or the Alberta Cancer Foundation. https://albertacancer.ca or a charity of your choice.