I still have so many records that came from Gordie, and even more memories. The two will be tangled together forever. For a few years I would head down almost every Wednesday before hockey. I would always try to find something to buy, but he told me many times I could just come and chat, sit on the couch, browse - it didn't matter if I bought anything. Looking directly to my right, I can see the Miles Davis poster he took off the wall one day and gave me during one of our many conversations about jazz. I didn't see him much after he retired, but it always brightened my day immeasurably when we did run into each other.
I'm so sorry to hear about his passing, and my sincere condolences to Heather and the rest of the family. It hurts to lose him as a casual friend, and I can't imagine what it must be like to have him gone from your family. What a unique spirit and incredible man.
0
I met Gord through the Fernwood store and we became friends over our shared love of vinyl and old acoustic guitars. Over the years I sourced plenty of both through him and I remember him fondly each time I play my J45 Gibson. “Hey man, how you doing?” Always a warm smile and kind words, the sort of person the world needs more of. My condolences to Heather and Dallas and clan. If a memorial is held I would like to attend.
1
I met Gordie in 2007 at his guitar/record store which was down the street from my apartment at the time. I went in to look at records, and met the person who helped me record my first (and so far only!) album, which I called “Curve of the Earth.” It was likely a title that Gordie could relate to, as we were both from Saskatchewan. Gord helped me to bring new things out of my songs and to realize the dream of making a record. I was pregnant at the time, and we managed to finish recording before my first daughter was born. I like to think that she benefitted from that time in the studio with him as well.
He was so kind, generous, patient and fun-loving. I enjoyed my time recording those songs with him so much and appreciate everything I learned from him. He also introduced me to some lovely musicians and people- including his family- and I am grateful for the time that our lives touched.
My love and condolences to everyone who loved him.
Kate Steele
1
My first strong memory of Gordie was playing hockey when we were both fairly new arrivals at Prince Philip school. In one of our first games, Gordie got 6 breakaways, scored on 3, and was kind enough to leave a rebound which allowed me to score on the other 3.--Heady stuff for 11 or 12 year olds! Gordie showed his artistic talents and continued to stand out when we did a spoof of a local children's television program in grade 6 or 7. He was the creator, director, and star of the show. I recall it as being very successful--we got a lot of laughs!
Our lives took different paths and I only reconnected with Gordie a few years ago. He was the same engaging and enthusiastic guy I had known, happy to share stories of old friends, teammates, and teachers.-- His ALS diagnosis had to be gut wrenching, but Gordie seemed to view it philosophically, he was going to do the best he could and enjoy what was given to him. He continued to be a story teller and engage with his friends as he always had.
I know that he took strength from his family, his friends, and music. So long old friend,
you will be missed.
2
I first met Gordie at his store 22 years ago when we moved to Victoria. Initially, our conversations centered around our love of music but over time, grew to touch on every topic. His knowledge of the music business and flair for story telling had me shaking my head - "how does he remember all of that stuff!" Our friendship grew over the years - attending live music shows together, golfing at Cedar Hill, having a beer or four over dinner at The Beagle (he loved the burgers), then shuffling off to his and Heather's place to spin some vinyl on that great sound system. I visited Gordie on Salt Spring Island a number of times. He faced his challenge with courage, strength and a strong spiritual conviction.
My love to Heather, Dallas, Liza, Jonah and all of Gordie's family. He was my friend. I miss him.
Karl Skala
3
So sorry for your loss Heather & family! Gord & Heather were the reason I moved my family to Victoria from Saskatoon back in 1996. We have known them since the early 80's when he came to work with the same real estate company as me. He was a fun loving guy and a great lover of people. That was easy to see in watching his interactions with people! Gordie will be missed by many!
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Heather,
Saddened when I heard of Gord's passing. Thankfully I was able to stay in touch to some extent since we were young kids back in Saskatoon. Gord and I played hockey one year along with Rich Buchwold for the pee wee Maple Leaf's. We were a terrible team, but we got to play in the Saskatoon arena; Whoo hoo!!!
I'll always remember Gord as a kind, soft spoken, talented person. Getting together at the band reunion in Victoria a few years ago was a step back in time. I'll never forget the band playing "this will be the last time" by the Stones. Gord did a great job singing the song. Every time I hear it, I think of Gord, not the Stones. I've got the tune on my Spotify fave's, so I hear it regularly.
Happy that I was able to talk with Gord a few times in the months leading to his passing. Right to the end, he was a champion. God Bless you Gord.
Heather, You take care of yourself. Nice that you have family close by.
2
Saddened and shocked to read of Gordie’s passing. I frequented his store the latter couple years. Bought a turntable or two, many records, a couple ukuleles and a bunch of espressos and it turned into a Saturday routine. Great chats. He seemed genuine and giving and positive. (And with a tale or two). When I say he was a nice guy, I mean that with depth and appreciation, not in a trite passing sense. My condolences to all in his orbit.
3
Gord and I worked together leading Life Skills courses in Saskatoon in the late 70's, although I'd known him since high school. He was a sensitive and intuitive facilitator, a very caring person, and a natural showman. I have many wonderful memories from his Saskatoon performances in those days - like the Parktown Lounge on Sunday nights, the Sun Dog Pleasure Fair, etc. I trekked out to Rosetown several times for late night recording sessions at the Eagle Creek studio. Gord also hosted programming for one of the local FM stations, sharing his love and encyclopedic knowledge of music. When the children were small, I remember he suspended his turntable from the ceiling of the living room to isolate it from unwelcome vibrations. He liked his music pure. Thanks for all the 'groovy dinners'.
4
I used to hang around playing guitars in the Fernwood shop while attending Victoria High School. I was playing a gig with the school R&B band and without hesitation, Gord told me take a beautiful white Fender Stratocaster (much nicer than my own) to play the show. I will never forget that gesture of trust and support. Unfortunately I just learned of his passing after an internet search sparked by the telling of this story to my wife. Condolences to his family.
3
A beautiful person , a Husband , Father, Grandfather and friend to so many . My condolences to Gord’s family for their loss , he was truly unique . I cannot believe that the time has gone by so quickly since Gord’s passing . I shall always think he is still around to fill in as always with his smiles and stories of family and a strong history of of his life . Donald Prodaehl and Catherine Bujold
4
Having played on Gord's album he affectionately titled "The Brown Album" it brings back fond memories. He was very talented and just a lovely guy. Rock on Gord, we'll miss you.
3
My condolences to Gordie's family. I first met Gordie in Saskatoon many years ago but didn't really get to know him until I dropped into his music store one day at the behest of our mother's who were friends. We played hockey together and the odd game of golf. Most of all we enjoyed getting together with other friends at a local watering hole. Gordie would entertain with his hilarious life stories for hours. Deep down he was a very spiritual individual. Gordie I will miss you dearly.
3
I first met Gord when he opened his store in Fernwood, where he encouraged my lifelong fascination with Hagstroms. From there I helped him with Reno’s to the new store at Stadacona as well as a number of additional projects. Through this process Gord was fun, creative, and just a great guy. I’ll miss him dearly, Rest in Peace Gord.
3
Growing up in the time of Gordie Howe and the Beatles , both of us playing Hockey and Guitar, well .... Gordie and I had a lot to talk about. I miss his beautiful Spirit . I hope he is Jamming with John Lennon , Chuck Berry ,Carl Perkins , Elvis and all the greats that influenced us . Rest In Peace my friend
3
I was fortunate to harmonize with Gordie more than once.... when we played together in Backbeat for a few years and when we often discussed matters of significance over Beatle songs at the store. Gordie was a thoughtful and genuinely loving guy and I am terribly saddened to hear of his passing. I know he was a family man of fierce faith and he will be sorely missed by all who were lucky enough to know him. My deepest condolences to Heather and the kids and I know his memory will live on in their hearts.
3
Gord was such a strong presence in my life. We played together in The Chattering Class, I worked with him in his music store and in retirement he was just such a good friend. We could always talk and laugh together and enjoy good music. He was just an all around great guy!
4
Gord will be forever in our hearts, he was my cousin & my friend, I have lots of childhood memories of Gord , he’ll be missed ❤️❤️❤️
2
Beginning in the early 60's I always felt close to Gord and his siblings. My brother Phil played in a band with Gord in the early 60's. I never got to know Gords kids and I want them to know he truly proud of you was and he never failed to let me know that. Your pride in him is truly well deserved . I am thankful for the get together that we had at Amigos. In true form Gord handled his diagnosis with class and strength .Rest easy Binky Budd you are missed !
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