Gordon Roderick Quigley, of Inverness, passed away peacefully in the Inverary Manor on October 4th, 2023. “Quig”, as Gordon was affectionately known, was born in Inverness on December 13th, 1927, to the late James and Adelaide (Moret) Quigley.
Gordon began his working career at the NSPC, Inverside Site, at age 16 after the mining accident of 1943 claimed the life of his father. Later, Gordon earned certification in electricity and mechanics and worked as a Stationary Engineer of the RCAF, Sydney NS (1953). After a brief stay in Windsor, Ontario, Gordon returned to Inverness to work at and later own/operate the FINA Station on Central Avenue. In 1972, Gordon built and operated the Strathlorne Service Station where he continued to serve his many loyal patrons and friends until his retirement in 1989.
Retirement had a different meaning for Gordon. An avid outdoorsman, Gordon began his walking, gardening, fishing, and hunting in earnest. Despite these activities, he had more time with his best friend and travelling buddy, the late Gordon MacDonald of Midway Motors, Middle River. In addition to selling cars, they travelled extensively: to Hawaii, Japan, Montreal Expo, Florida, and elsewhere. Gordon also spent time with his beloved uncle and friend, the late Anthony Moret. “Moret” and Gordon fished the Margaree River, hunted their favorite woodlands, and tended their beautiful flower and vegetable gardens. Many hours sharing stories and teasing characterized those adventures. Gordon loved discussing antique cars with his friend Daniel Poirier and he rarely missed a show, including the last one held at the Inverary Manor in July. Early Sunday morning coffee visits with Cary MacLean and breakfasts at the Coal Miner’s Café with Darryl Poirier were absolute highlights in his week.
In 1961, Gordon married the love of his life, the late Mary Eleanor MacKinnon. Sadly, Eleanor predeceased him in 1970 after a lengthy illness.
Also predeceasing Gordon were his parents, his sister in infancy, Anna Josephine, twin brother Harold (the late Joan), brother Jimmy (the late Margaret), brother-in-law Harold Doherty, and nephew, Steven Doherty.
Gordon is survived by his much-loved sister, Patsy Doherty (Ontario), several nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends. Gordon will be fondly remembered by the MacDonald families of Middle River and Baddeck, and the MacFarlane family of Glenville.
At this time, Nicole would like to say a sincere thank you to those who provided such devoted care to Gordon: Dr. Susie Egar, Home Care Staff (especially Clorice, Janet and Teresa), nursing staff at Foyer Pere Fiset and the Inverary Manor. Gordon so appreciated your loving care and acts of kindness.
Cremation has taken place. Gordon requested that there be no visitation or funeral service. Burial at a later date in St John’s Cemetery, where Gordon will rest beside his loving wife, Eleanor. Thank you to Kevin and Tonya of the Inverness Funeral Home for their professional service. Donations in Gordon’s memory may be made to the Inverary Manor, Inverness or a charity of one’s choice.
To each of his many friends, Gordon’s farewell expression would undoubtedly be “See you later, kid!”
Online condolences may be made to: www.invernessfuneralhome.com
