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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
DONALDSON, Gordon Henry Bowles - In the early hours on September 6th Gordon passed away peacefully with his beloved daughter by his side at the Cottonwood Care Centre in Kelowna, British Columbia.
Gordon was born August 1, 1934 and was the first child born to Jack and Mabel Donaldson in Edmonton, Alberta. He was raised on the farm south of Green Court. Gordon started school in Green Court then moving on to Mayerthorpe, Alberta. He was involved in school sports and he sang in the musical festivals at school.
Being the oldest, he worked very hard on the farm in where he learned good work ethics. There was also time to pay with the neighborhood kids. Upon leaving school he worked on Cook Construction. Following that he join the Navy, stationed in Victoria, British Columbia. This took him on many adventures in the world especially around South America. When Gordon left the Navy, he drove heavy equipment around the interior and northern British Columbia, Ge worked on the Mica Damn and Tumbler Ridge Damn.
Once Gordon retired, Gordon and his partner Bertha Greenwood settled in Kelowna. They made many friends over time and enjoyed spending time at the lake surrounding the Okanagan. They loved the climate and abundance of fresh fruit, apples and cherries. Gordon loved hockey in which he bought season tickets to the home team, the Kelowna Rockets. When he couldn't go anymore he would listen to the games on the radio.
Gordon loved history, hockey reading and researching family genealogy. He could tell you events passed and present, especially all about the wars. His last years he spent in the Cottonwood Care Centre. He really enjoyed his years there. Participating in all the outings to hockey games, dinner and drives around the city in the winter and the summer. He also encouraged other residents to participate in the activities.
The family is very grateful to the staff at Cottonwood Care Centre, the Recreation Programs, Carolyn and all the others involved in his care.
Gordon is predeceased by his parents Jack and Mabel Donaldson, his partner, Bertha Greenwood, daughter Janelle and brother, Calvin.
He leaves behind his son, Rodney (Karen) Donaldson, his daughter, Sheila ( Terry) Barrett and his much loved grandchildren Shelbie and Tanner Barrett, his sister, Laurel (Lisa and Garth) brother, Donald (Joe, Micheal, Kevin and Kelsey) and many great niece and nephews.
As Gordon's wishes will be honoured he will be laid to rest beside his parents and family in the Mayerthorpe Cemetery. A service will be held in the Spring or early Summer of 2024. (The Mayerthorpe Freelancer 28 Sep 2023)
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