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Channel: Kelowna Daily Courier Classifieds: Obituaries
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SPRINGATE, DR. GORDON LEONARD ...

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SPRINGATE, Dr. Gordon Leonard Vincent, P.Eng., MBA February 6, 1931 - May 9, 2014 Gordon died peacefully with his beloved wife, Joyce, by his side after a short struggle with pancreatic cancer. Gordon was a wonderful Dad to his children: Hilary (Wendy), Gordon (Charinee), Gregory, Charmaine (Mark), Chris (Cynthia), and Blair (Anne). He was a warm and welcoming Step-Dad to Joyce's children, Jeffrey (Maureen) and Eileen (Carl). He was very proud of his grandchildren: Kelsey, Leah, Robyn, Georgia, Amanda, Riley, Solange, and Griffin and Richard and Elizabeth Church, and Reid Palmer. Gordon is also survived by brothers, Arnold and George; and sisters, Joyce and Ruth; as well as many nieces and nephews. Gordon is survived by Charlotte, mother of his children. Gordon was the son of Walter and Eleanor Springate, born in Montreal. He completed his Undergraduate Degree in Electrical Engineering and Engineering Physics at McGill University, his Master of Business Administration at Simon Fraser University and his Doctorate at Nova Southeastern University. Gordon's work brought him from Toronto to Vancouver in 1957, then to Prince George in 1980, and finally to Kelowna in 1987 to be Dean of the Division of Applied Studies at Okanagan University College. Over the years he also instructed for Nova Southeastern University, City University, College of New Caledonia, Simon Fraser University and the Institute of Canadian Bankers. Gordon's deep commitment to his community was evident in many organizations and activities where he donated his leadership skills and wisdom. He was committed to his position as Dean's Warden at the Cathedral Church of St. Michael and All Angels; worked for many years with Scouts Canada, receiving the Canada 125 Medal for volunteer contributions; committed more than 55 years of volunteer instructing and leadership to the Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons, being Chief Commander for Canada; founding President of the Westbank Toastmasters Club; Director for the Gellatly Nut Farm Society; President of the Kelowna Probus Club and National President for Probus Canada; volunteer with Red Cross; member of the Rotary Clubs of Kelowna, West Kelowna, and Prince George; deeply involved with the Masonic fraternity, belonging to several concordant bodies, including the Shriners; Past President of the Association of the Professional Engineers and Geoscientists for British Columbia; and the Canadian Council of Professional Engineers. Shortly after Whistler Mountain first opened in 1966, Gordon purchased a lot at Whistler and built a large cabin with his own hands. When his children were young, Gordon taught each of his children to downhill ski and they have many fond memories of their time together on the slopes and at 'the cabin' at Whistler. Gordon was involved in their other sports, including being a hockey referee. Gordon will be remembered for his many contributions to Canadian society, his wonderful sense of humour, his sense of compassion and integrity, and for his commitment and generosity to his world. He will be greatly missed by his family. A memorial service will be held at the Cathedral Church of St. Michael and All Angels, 608 Sutherland Ave., Saturday, May 17th at 2 PM, with a reception to follow. If desired, a donation may be made to a charity of your choice in Gordon's name. Arrangements in care of Everden Rust Funeral Services, (250) 860-6440. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.everdenrust.com

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