Gord passed away on August 17, 2018 at Grace Hospital at the age of 70.

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Gord’s medical condition had been deteriorating over the past few years.

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 Gord grew up in St. Vital and lived with the Lamblin family while he attended Dakota Collegiate, and then on to the University of Manitoba where he attained a Bachelor of Physical Education Degree in 1972. Gord was an accomplished middle distance runner and for many years held the provincial record for the 2 mile distance.

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In 1975 Gord and his girlfriend, Diane Polanski, were in a motor vehicle accident and tragically Diane was killed and Gord sustained a severe head injury.

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Gord’s life was shattered and it was with tremendous resilience and determination that Gord survived and went on to engage in a range of volunteer positions with organizations such as the Society for Manitobans with Disabilities, St. Amant Centre, Pan Am Games, and Western Canada Summer Games.

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Gord will be fondly remembered by a myriad of people who have been his main supports over the years:

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The Polanski Family: Darlene Hoffman, Linda Ramsay (Michael), and Sharon Rossi (Tom) have been very faithful in supporting Gord with regular visits and acknowledgement of every birthday and special holiday celebration.

Patty Benoit and her children Leah (Matt) and Kristy (John) have made Gord part of their family, and have been a big part of Gord’s life since the untimely death of Bruce Benoit their husband /father who was Gord’s best buddy and fellow “adventurer” in life!

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Gord’s foster brothers Art (Merilee) and John (Elaine) Lamblin have been there for Gord in so many ways from the early days to the final days!

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Barb and Dale Purvis have provided a very steady presence during these past several years as Gord’s ability to maintain his independence was waning. They provided very practical support and have been very important support team members as Gord made the move into a nursing home.

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Finally, Fred Nelson (Kathie) has been a long-time friend who hung in there with Gord from the early days in the Rehab Centre to his final days being a liaison with the health care system and in some way representing Gord’s many friends who were unable to be there.

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Gord spent the last three years of his life at the Southeast Personal Care Home. We are very appreciative of the excellent and compassionate care Gord received.

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In closing, Patty Benoit summed it up well when she said: “Gordie tried hard to live life to the fullest. He did everything he could considering his circumstances. Everybody loved him.”

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As per Gord’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no formal service.

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If people would like to make a donation in Gord’s memory, please consider donating to the following: The Jerry and Gerry Ilchyna Dakota Collegiate Scholarship Fund, or the Southeast Personal Care Home.