OBITUARY

Gordon James Anderson

November 1, 1929 – January 14, 2011

Gordon James Anderson of Abbotsford, BC passed away on January 14, 2011 in the loving presence of his son and daughter at the age of 81. He was born at home on the family farm in Melville, SK on November 1, 1929. Gordon left the farm to pursue a career with the RCMP in 1955. In 1973, after 20 years in the police force, he retired in Abbotsford where he worked at Eaton’s until 1992.

He was the last of his siblings, predeceased by Gerald, Bernice, Fran, Norma, Jack, and Thelma. Gordon is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Clara Marie “Cookie”; son, Keith (Debby) and daughter Kathy (Roy) and two grandchildren Christopher and Kayla.

Gordon was a devoted husband and father. He took joy in spending time with his family and loved visits from friends and relatives. In his retirement he could often be seen with his wife walking their dog, Missy, around Mill Lake and going out for coffee.

A Celebration of Gordon's life will be held in Abbotsford on Friday, January 21, at Henderson's Funeral Home, 34537 Marshall Road at 10:30 AM. The family wishes to thank the staff of the Abbotsford Menno home for their care and support and acknowledge the kindly support of neighbors. Donations in Gordon’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of BC.

Arrangements under the direction of Henderson's Fraser Valley Funeral Home, Abbotsford, BC.

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  • Funeral Service Friday, January 21, 2011
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REMEMBERING

Gordon James Anderson

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Keith Anderson

February 1, 2011

Keith's Tribute
Throughout my life I have always felt safe & protected knowing Dad was there. He took the job of being Dad seriously and cared deeply for all of us. He even kept a family picture in his wallet from when I was little.
My Dad was a strong minded leader who was honest, fair and he paid attention to detail in all that he did. He believed that honesty, integrity, and respect were earned, and demonstrated this throughout his whole life.
First impressions were important to Dad and he always looked his best. He gave advice to those who needed it, and was always there to help. It didn't matter if it was to work on my car, help with paperwork, give advice, solve a problem or lend an ear. "Do Your Best" he would say and "That's All Anyone can Expect from You." Family always came first and Dad was always looking out for us, in good times or in bad, in laughter or sorrow.
Although Dad was serious, he had a silly side and he would create funny characters to make this point. The phantom and old Indian are two that come to mind. For example, Dad wouldn't get mad when there were no Japanese oranges left and neither Kathy or myself would own up to it, so Dad would say that the Phantom must have eaten them and then that would be the end of it. I felt it was a good way to make a point so I carry on this unique tradition with my kids.
When Dad and I were walking around Mill Lake this summer, Dad commented that there were so many elderly people out walking their dogs. I told Dad that he was included in that statement and that he was elderly too. "No I'm not!" my Dad replied. "Oh yes you are Dad, you're eighty one years old just like them." "Nooo, Really!" he replied with a shocked look on his face.
Dad was also very curious. Kathy, Debby and I had rented a limousine for Christmas one year to surprise them. When the limousine driver went to the door to ask them to come to the car, Dad refused, peered out from behind the front window and was very suspicious. The limousine driver came back to the car and said they won't come out. I told him the surprise would be ruined if I went to the door, and that he would have to be more persuasive. I guess Dad thought he was going to be kidnapped. I don't know what the limo driver said but Dad came to the car and peeked in. We all yelled surprise and he was relieved and of course surprised! He then joined us for a great evening and memorable night out.
Because of Dad's strong desire to look after the family, Kathy and I relieved Dad of his duties the night he passed away. We told him that we would take care of everything especially the love of his life, my Mom, and to go to heaven where we will all meet together someday.
I LOVE YOU DAD AND I AWAYS WILL LOVE YOU!

Carmel Shaughnessy

January 31, 2011

Kathy and family,
I am so sorry to hear about your dad. My heart goes out to you and your family. Please accept my sincere condolences. My thoughts are with you.

Gerry & Cyndy Anderson

January 29, 2011

Gordon was a wonderful person, and it was always such a pleasure to be with you both throughout the years. He will be missed.

Maria Martin

January 25, 2011

Thanks for sharing the wonderful photos of a life well-lived. My deepest condolences on your loss, Kathy and family.

Marcie Doran

January 21, 2011

Dear Kathy,

David and I were so sorry to hear of your loss. We know how you loved your father. We hope that you will be comforted in the knowledge that he led a wonderful, full life, and that he was a fortunate man to have such a loving family.

Corinne Lynnes

January 21, 2011

Corinne Lynnes

January 21, 2011

Corinne Lynnes

January 21, 2011

Corinne Lynnes

January 21, 2011

Dear Cookie, Keith, Kathy and Families,

I was so sorry to hear of Uncle Gordan's passing; Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you as you grieve the loss of his presence here with us, while at the same time, rejoice in his new eternal life with Christ! Treasure the memories, and take comfort in the fact that he lives on through each one of you!

Love from,
Corinne, Greg, Jordan and Jada-Rae

Miriam Page

January 21, 2011

Kathy,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. The photo gallery is priceless. A beautiful celebration of his life. May you find peace and comfort with your memories.

IN THE CARE OF

Henderson's Fraser Valley Funeral Home
Abbotsford, BC
604-854-5534