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Gordon Arthur Watson
September 4, 1942 - September 24, 2023
Obituary
With deep sadness we announce the unexpected passing of Gordon Watson who was 81 years of age. He was born and raised in Vancouver, BC. Gord was fortunate to have a large, loving family. He is survived by his wife Helen and her three sons Tony (Ali), Clayton (Kim), Scott (Jenn) and nine grandchildren who loved to call him Gordpa! He is also survived by his son Norm (Sheela) and daughter Tracy (Dave), daughter-in-law Jennifer and his five grandchildren. Gord was predeceased by his parents Arthur and Elsie, brother Norman, wife Judy and son Steve.
Gord was a Certified General Accountant (CGA) and spent most of his working life at Burrard Drydock. After a long, rewarding career with numerous promotions, he ended his time there as the General Manager. He was the last person to walk out the door when the company closed. Next was an opportunity with a company called Infowave. He thrived in this new hi-tech environment and made some lifetime friends. Gord retired in the year 2000 and was surprised by his colleagues when they gave him the honour of being “piped” out on his last day. He was thrilled to discover his wife Judy was waiting in a Limo to join him on the way home.
Gord’s passion for travelling inspired him to see all but one continent! He was always happiest planning his next trip with family or good friends. Gord appreciated good food and even better wine, either in a beautiful vineyard, fine dining restaurant, a local Diner (where everyone knew his name!) or best yet at home taking in his spectacular lakeview with his wife Helen. Gord had a deep appreciation for art and purchased some nice pieces in his travels and from a local Okanagan artist and great friend.
Gord became a Rotarian and significantly contributed to various events. One to note was the Penticton Ribfest and the other was his heartfelt dedication to Starfish.
Gord made an impression on all who knew him. He was admired for his strength of character, intelligence, generosity, integrity, and a “questionable” but fun sense of humour. Gord treasured his family and friends, and it was always his priority that they were well cared for and looked after. He will be truly missed.
A private Celebration of Life reception will be held at a later date. Flowers are gratefully declined. Those who wish, memorial donations may be made to Penticton Regional Hospital.
Condolences
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From: Kettle Valley Memorial Services
The Kettle Valley Memorial staff send our condolences to family and friends.
From: Gerry Karr
Relation: Close friend and fellow Rotarian
Dear Helen, It was such a shock to learn of Gord’s passing. It is so sad that he was unable to find the care he needed to help him deal with his pain. He is at peace now. I hope it gives you comfort to know that he was loved by so many, and that he made a positive difference to the lives of all who knew him. He was such a good man, gone too soon.
Gerry
From: Tracy
Relation: Fellow Rotarian
Helen and family!
My heart breaks for all of you and most of all for Gord. What an amazing man.
He left an incredible legacy in Starfish that will live on for a long time to come.
From: Blake Stephens
Relation: Boyfriend of grand daughter
I never got the chance to meet you in person, Gord but I had heard so many amazing things about you. You were a loving and caring man to those who you were close to and I hope you may now rest in peace. Love you Gordon.
From: Natalie Ferebee
Relation: Friend
Helen and family. So sorry to hear of Gord’s passing. He had an infectious belly laugh and made sure that Starfish got its start in Penticton with Rotary. He was determined and always had a smile. He will be missed
From: Keith Johnson
Relation: Friend and fellow Rotarian
Helen and family: My sincere condolences on your loss of Gord. He and I enjoyed working together on Rotary projects including Ribfest. May you hold your good memories dear to help ease the pain of your loss. Best wishes, Keith
From: Tiffany Thoreson
Relation: Wife of his Grandson, Curtis Lassam
My sincere condolences for the loss of a special man. He was always welcoming to Curtis and myself, and our trips together around the Okanagan wine valley showcased how truly wonderful and beautiful the area he was in could be. Those are really cherished memories, and I’m so glad I was included with his wonderful family to share a glass from his cellars at the table. A bottomless hug to Tracy, Norm and Helen, as well as all others who have known and will miss him. I’m glad he was able to touch so many lives and see so many places. I always appreciated his wit and wry humour. My next glass of red, I will toast to him.
From: Sandra Krauer
Relation: Friend
Dear Helen and family We are so sad to know that Gord has left us. Roland and I saw him as a big hearted person who always seemed ready to share a joke and a good glass of wine. We appreciated your and Gord’s kindness and your remarkable ability to make all who entered your home feel incredibly welcome. With love, Sandra
From: Dave Lassam
Relation: Son in-law
I have so many cherished memories of all our times together. So many great visits to the Okanagan, spending time with you and Helen. Before that it was to the family home in Coquitlam or the cabin at Dot Lake with you and Judy. You welcomed me into the family and you made me feel like one of your own boys. I will miss our conversations about just about everything we could think to talk about. You were a generous, fun loving man and we always appreciated your advice and everything you were to us. Rest in peace Gord, say hello to Judy, Steve and Dougal for Tracy and I. Love ya lots and lots.
From: Jim & Denise McIntosh
Relation: Worked with Gord
Denise and I want to provide our sincere condolences to Helen, Tracy, Norm and all members of Gord’s family. Denise and I were fortunate to share many fun moments with Gord during company Christmas parties and social events. I (Jim) was fortunate to work with Gord while at Infowave. He was a positive and strong influence in my career and I consider him a very good friend.
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Private service arrangements have been made.
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