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.
Services
- Funeral Service Friday, January 21, 2011
REMEMBERING
Gordon James Anderson
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RECEIVE UPDATESKeith 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.
Jeff Froehler
January 21, 2011
Dear Cookie,
I am so sorry to hear of your recent loss.I feel very fortunate to have met you and Gordon.It was a great pleasure working for you and I will always remember the laughter and conversations I had with you and Gord over lunch.Gordon will be remembered as a kind gentle man who loved his life and his family, he will be dearly missed.
Cookie my thoughts and prayers are with you, and your family.
Julie Belanger
January 20, 2011
Dear Cookie,
I send you my most sincere condolances from Paris and wish we were closer so I could tell you in person. I will always remember the day I met Gordon when you both visited us in Vancouver - full of smiles, kindness and good humour. Good memories!
January 20, 2011
Gordon was a man who we all respected and we will miss him. I have much love and admiration for him. He will always be remembered. Gordon and Cookie came to our home often over the years and that was so much fun.
Cookie, my thoughts are with you, the Lord will be your comfort as well as your children and many friends. I wish I could be there with you. Much love, Phyllis Anderson
Carla Bekkering
January 20, 2011
To all of you,
I have many fond memories of your family and your dad. In particular, I remember a really hillarious barbeque at your mom and dad's old house in Clearbrook where we kept taking pretend pictures of your dog. The day was filled with laughter and fun. Your dad was a great guy and Wolfgang and I have always felt very welcome in his presence. Our thoughts are with you. It does get better from here.
Melanie Dillon
January 20, 2011
Kathy and Roy, what a beautiful photo gallery! Great memories of a lovely family. I will think of you tomorrow and wish I could be at the service. We have thought of you often this week. May the love of friends and family sustain you. Melanie Dillon
January 20, 2011
Dear Cookie and family,
Our thoughts are with you all as you grieve and remember your wonderful husband, father and grandfather. We have only the fondest of memories of him. We feel fortunate to have been neighbours with you for so long! Know we are always here to help in any way.
Sincerely, Ron, Shelley, Madison, Cole and Blake
Monica Smith
January 20, 2011
Kathy (Roy and family)
Thank you so much for notifying us of your father's passing. The obituary is absolutely lovely. It helps us know a little piece of your father. it sounds like he led a full life. No doubt very very proud of you.
Thinking of you during this difficult time,
Monica Smith, friend and colleague, Ottawa ON.
Roxanne Descôteaux
January 19, 2011
Kathy, looking at the pictures I can see that you dad was a loving husband and father. May your fond memories of his love help you through this difficult time. My deepest sympathies to you, Roy, your mother and your family.
Cheryl Mikolas
January 19, 2011
Dear Cookie, My deepest sympathies to you, Keith and Debbie, Christopher, Kayla, Kathy and Roy. You had a very good husband, father and grandfather! I enjoyed the visits that I had with you and Uncle Gordon over the years - even last year I enjoyed so much talking with Uncle Gordon about the old timers from Melville and other family members and funny events! You two made a lovely couple and the pictures on the website highlighted a full life full of joy, adventure and family. Gordon was a blessing to all who knew him and he finished well. May God bless you all and comfort you in your mourning.
Love, Cheryl Mikolas (Carlson), Geoff and family.
Pansy Leung
January 19, 2011
Kathy, Roy & family: Will and I are thinking of you. May the love of those around you help you through the days head. If there is anything I can do, please do not hesitate.
Jim Bronskill
January 18, 2011
Kathy and Roy, I hope your fond memories and the strength of your family are helping sustain you. Deepest condolences.
Sandra Amirault
January 18, 2011
Kathy:
My thoughts are with you. Having just experienced the sudden death of my Mom in early January, I know it is a difficult time. May you draw strength from the on-going support of family and friends, both in the community there and here in Ottawa.
Chris Arnott
January 18, 2011
Kathy, Roy and Family,
My heart goes out to you during this difficult time. My thoughts are with you.
Chris
David Taylor
January 18, 2011
Kathy, Keith, and "Cookie":
I have fond memories of Gordon as a gentle and kind soul, always generous in spirit and friendship. My deepest sympathies.
FROM THE FAMILY
FROM THE FAMILY
Baby picture of Gordon Melville, Sask. 1929
FROM THE FAMILY
Gordon with his sisters Thelma, Fran & Norma 1933
FROM THE FAMILY
Family in 1936, Dad Joel, Mom Eloise, Bernice, Frances, Gerald, Jack, Norma, Thelma, Gordon
FROM THE FAMILY
Gordon & his trusty steed 1936
FROM THE FAMILY
Pet rooster called "Roostie Jigs" 1939
FROM THE FAMILY
With his Dad, sister Norma & "Pat" the family dog 1943
FROM THE FAMILY
Gordon & his 4-H Club calf 1948
FROM THE FAMILY
The three brothers, Jack, Gerald & Gordon 1948
FROM THE FAMILY
Gordon on the tractor with dog "Tammy", Donna & David
FROM THE FAMILY
A mountie with his horse 1962
FROM THE FAMILY
On a date with "Cookie" Queen Elizabeth Park
FROM THE FAMILY
"Cookie" with the 1956 Pontiac
FROM THE FAMILY
Wedding Day June 2, 1958
FROM THE FAMILY
"Cookie" signing her life away
FROM THE FAMILY
At the reception
FROM THE FAMILY
Just resting
FROM THE FAMILY
Keith's Christening in Fernie BC
FROM THE FAMILY
Keith in his pink snowsuit
FROM THE FAMILY
Gordon & Keith Fairmont Hot Springs
FROM THE FAMILY
Playing with "Tammy" Gordon's Dog
FROM THE FAMILY
In Fernie 1962 Just another work day
FROM THE FAMILY
Ready to go to work
FROM THE FAMILY
At Jack's place in Auburn 1962
FROM THE FAMILY
1966 at the Fernie Golf course with "Cookie", Keith & Kathy
FROM THE FAMILY
Camping with the family at Bear Lake just outside Prince George
FROM THE FAMILY
Jack's antique Buick with Keith driving
FROM THE FAMILY
Holiday in Hawaii 1989
FROM THE FAMILY
The Royal Hudson 1990
FROM THE FAMILY
Abbotsford Airshow with Ron & Keith 1991
FROM THE FAMILY
All the siblings Gordon, Gerald, Bernice, Fran, Norma, Thelma & Jack
FROM THE FAMILY
Family reunion in Sask
FROM THE FAMILY
Kathy's graduation from Simon Fraser University 1990
FROM THE FAMILY
First helicopter ride 1992 in Kamloops, BC
FROM THE FAMILY
Visiting with Jack & Fran 1992
FROM THE FAMILY
Retirement from Eaton's 1992
FROM THE FAMILY
"Cookie" & Gordon at McBride Museum Whitehorse Yukon 1995
FROM THE FAMILY
Can still wear his old uniform 1995
FROM THE FAMILY
Gordon's cars in 1995 when visiting grandchildren Christopher & Kayla
FROM THE FAMILY
The "Pool Shark" at the PNE
FROM THE FAMILY
"Donut a Day Dad" with Kathy
FROM THE FAMILY
Too long chatting with Keith 1997
FROM THE FAMILY
Pebble Beach Car Show with Jack & Christopher 1998
FROM THE FAMILY
Enjoying the Shuswap Lake 1998
FROM THE FAMILY
70th Birthday November 1, 1999
FROM THE FAMILY
With Keith & Jim Collingridge's car 2000
FROM THE FAMILY
A visit with Jack, Jerry, Ron, David Auburn 2000
FROM THE FAMILY
At Shuswap Lake with family 2007
FROM THE FAMILY
Gordon & Kathy at Mill Lake
FROM THE FAMILY
Out walking the dog's with granddaughter Kayla 2009
FROM THE FAMILY
Gordon, Keith & Kayla with dogs Gyro & Missy Mill Lake 2009
FROM THE FAMILY
Christopher & his grandpa 2010