GILES, GORDON THOMAS FRANCIS
October 27, 1928 – April 18, 2021
Gordon (Gordy) Giles slipped away Sunday, April 18, 2021 with his wife of 70 years, Verna, at his side. Gordon was a mechanical genius with an affinity for metalwork. He was also a highly proficient woodworker and could fix or make just about anything. Born in Camrose, Alberta, he went to work at a young age, first fixing bikes and later as a certified machinist and mechanic. At age 40, after watching his employer’s garage burn to the ground, Gordon went back to school, completing first high school and then teacher’s training. For 20 years he taught small engine repair to sometimes challenging students at Shaughnessy School in Calgary. Later manyof these young men thanked Gordon for his positive influence on their lives. Gordy was playful, gentlemanly, curious and genuinely interested in people. In his youth he played hockey, put together his own Model T roadster, flew planes and loved a good party. In later years he enjoyed playing with his great-grandchildren, whether at barbies or ‘wressling’. Gordon is lovingly remembered by wife, Verna, who has been his best friend for 75 years; sons, Mike (Anne) and David (Rita); grandchildren, Nathan, Michelle, Aura, Lisa (Kevin), Chris (Lori), Kelly (Craig), Diane and Teri (Patrick). He also leaves great-grandchildren, Margaret, Keira, Lexy, Jackson, Claire, Vada, Beau, Luke, Alyssa, Jake and Eric. Predeceased by his daughter, Betti; son-in-law, Ean Bittorf; daughter, Lori; and granddaughter, Alita. A virtual Celebration of Gordon’s Life will be held at McDougall United Church on Friday, May 14 at 2 p.m. Link: www.youtube.com/channel/UC_7mplguk2NAKiZ0zRl8iMg.
In lieu of flowers, donations to McDougall United Church (8516 Athabasca St. SE, Calgary AB, T2H 1S1) or The Alzheimer Society of Calgary (800-7015 MacLeod Trail SW, Calgary AB, T2H 2K6) in Gordon’s memory would be gratefully received.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Gordon Thomas Giles April 18th 2021..
Alternatives Funeral & Cremation Services
Death notice for the town of: Airdrie, Province: Alberta