William Gordon Graham

Gordon Graham passed away peacefully on Friday, January 14th, 2022 in his 89th year, at his new home at the Arbour Trails retirement center in Guelph after an extended illness.

He is survived by his wife Mary (nee Thompson) and his three children Don, Jeff and Melanie (Duke) of Toronto, Owen Sound and Newmarket, respectively. Proud grandfather of ten grandchildren and four great great grandchildren.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Arbour Trails for their support and encouragement to Gord and Mary and for all of their help over the last several weeks in particular. Thanks is also extended to Dr. Spadafora for his personal care in recent weeks as well as staff of Bayshore HealthCare.

Gord was born in Brampton and raised on a farm in Norval, Ontario. He stayed close to his agricultural roots for his entire life. He attended the University of Guelph and graduated from the Ontario Agriculture College (OAC) in 1957. He went on to complete his Masters in Physics before returning to teach physics at the University of Guelph beginning in 1962 until his retirement in 1995. Gord and Mary stayed close to many friends made at the University of Guelph during his career and following retirement.

Gord and Mary met in 1956 at a Junior Farmers dance near Mary's hometown of Hornby, Ontario. They married in 1958 and enjoyed 64 years of married life together. They were members of Trinity United Church in Guelph, Ontario.

In retirement, Gord and Mary had the opportunity to travel to many countries as well as annual visits to Florida. Together they enjoyed a number of years of beekeeping to maintain their connection to agriculture. Regular visits to the Guelph farmers market for fresh Norval apples and other local farm products was a favourite pastime.

Gord had a lifelong interest in nature and was a passionate bird watcher for many years. He served as president of the Guelph Field Naturalists for a number of years in the 1970’s. He was also an active member of the Guelph Wellington Men’s Club. In earlier years he loved to sail his Mirror Dinghy crafted in the family garage and served on the executive of the local Power Squadron.

Resting at Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home, Hart Chapel, the Funeral Service will take place at the Hart Chapel, 1099 Gordon St. Guelph, Thursday, January 20 at 2:00pm. Guests may arrive at 1:00pm to pay respects before the service begins. All are welcome to live stream the service on the internet via ZOOM. Link to follow below. Due to COVID restrictions, guests must RSVP their attendance using the link below this obituary for the Funeral.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Nature Conservancy Of Canada, Trinity United Church, or a charity of your choice would be appreciate by the family. Donations can be made in person at the funeral home by cash or cheque or online below.