Gordon, our much loved husband, father, brother, and uncle, passed away on May 9th 2019. Gordon was born in Trail B.C. to Anne and Elliot Player and raised in Warfield with his two brothers, Douglas (Maureen) and Peter. He married the love of his life, Joyce Bell, his life partner for over 54 years, in 1965. They raised two sons, Donald (Elisa) and Peter, in Rossland or, as Gordon called it, the “best place on earth”.
It became clear at a young age that Gordon was a force of nature- full of energy, unstoppable, and unforgettable. In his teens he was selected, as one of the best Air Cadets in Canada, for an Air Force-sponsored exchange that took him to New York, Washington, D.C., and the NORAD headquarters in Colorado. He channeled his enthusiasm for helping others into a career in education, first earning his Bachelor of Education degree from U.B.C, and then a Master’s degree from Gonzaga University.
Gordon was born to teach! In his classes, it was difficult to tell who was having the most fun, Gordon or his students. Those who had the good fortune of going through Gordon’s Grade 7 class at Maclean Elementary will have fond memories of some rather unique learning opportunities. He coached basketball, started a yearbook, arranged for air force base tours, and danced a mean Virginia Reel (and got even more exotic with Filipino tinikling lessons!). His infectious passion for both extraordinary activities and traditional school subjects had an immensely positive impact on generations of students.
After retirement, Gordon continued to teach through Selkirk College, teaching teachers to teach. His love of community led him to serve as a Director of the Rossland (Nelson and district) Credit Union for many years. Gordon also loved his dogs and could often be found walking them on the many trails around town. For years he looked forward to an annual Canada Day hike to the top of Mount Roberts.
Gordon will be enormously missed and remembered fondly as the brilliant, dedicated, outspoken, hilarious, giving person he was. The Players would like to sincerely thank the staff and Columbia View who so compassionately cared for Gordon. Honouring his request there will be no service. Memorial donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of B.C. at #300-828 W. 8th Avenue Vancouver B.C. V5Z 1E2 alzheimer.ca/en/bc/Get-involved/Ways-to-donate or to the charity of your choice.
Gwen Ziprick of Alternatives Funeral and Cremation services has been entrusted with the arrangements. You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence.
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Gordon Elliot Player May 9th 2019..
Décès pour la Ville: Trail, Province: Colombie britanique