Dr. Alexander Sandy Gordon

1935 - 2011

Suddenly and unexpectedly, Sandy Gordon passed away on October 17, 2011. He leaves to morn his death two brothers, Angus Gordon (Norah) and Grant Gordon (Margaret) and their children. All Sandy’s relatives reside in Scotland. Sandy was particularly close to his nephew Iain who will miss him greatly. He will be sorely missed by his long-time friend John Clark.

Sandy was born in Grantown-on-Spey, Scotland, where he received his education culminating in a B.A. Honours in French and German. He then went to Paris, and very successfully completed a Licence and a Doctorat. In 1961 he came to Canada where he spent his whole career teaching French at the University of Manitoba. He was as successful in teaching as he was in research and publications. His career was honoured by the Palmes Académiques (France) and by the title Professor Emeritus (University of Manitoba).

Sandy was constantly in search of renewing himself. This ranged from making fine furniture to, most recently, watercolour painting. For his mind he became devoted to crossword puzzles and sudoku and learning Gaelic! For his body, he disciplined himself by going swimming early in the morning, even in January and February.

Many people have commented on his charismatic charm. His conversation was full of wit and joviality, behind which was a basic seriousness and a devotion to duty. He was very generous, a supporter of many charities.

Such a loss. Although Sandy loved flowers, he would have preferred, if they wished, that people contribute to a favorite charity.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 12, 2011 at 10:00 am at Thomson Funeral Home, 669 Broadway followed by a gathering of family and friends.