Gordon John Garner

Just 70 years old, he was taken too soon.

Gordie was born on February 2, 1953, in Vancouver. The second child of parents Dave and Pat Garner, he grew up in the legendary house on Hammond Bay Road in rural Nanaimo with his older brother and three younger sisters. His love of music started at an early age, fostered by his father’s love of jazz and rounded out by his mother’s love of classical music. In the 1960’s, Gordie was drawn into the explosion of rock music, buying 45s and LPs that he played in the room he shared with his brother Mike. During that time, he learned to play the guitar.

A few years after graduating from high school, Gordie married Stephanie Rodger. They had two sons, Charlie and Jess.

Throughout his life, Gordie worked at many jobs, including lighthouse keeper on Bonilla Island, picture-framing business owner with Steph, and baker. He was manager of the bakery at Walmart in Victoria and after that, Courtenay. He completed his training as a chef later in life, and most recently worked at Retirement Concepts Comox Valley Seniors Village and Casa Loma long term care home doing meal prep.

Throughout his life, he remained passionate about music. He loved playing guitar and singing, and entertained people all over the north island area. He played with The Howlin’ Dogs since the band’s inception in 1988. They performed in the Courtenay/Comox/Quadra Island region for many years, including opening for Long John Baldry. On April 15 of this year, they played their first ticketed event to a sold-out crowd at the Black Creek Community Hall. Gordie was thrilled by the audience’s enthusiasm. He said, "Such a good feeling to know that everyone there had come out to listen to our band and dance to our music."

Gordie made friends wherever he went. He had a great sense of humour, a big smile, and an even bigger heart. He loved to cook and eat good food, tell stories and jokes, and connect with people.

Loved by many, Gordie is survived by his life partner Vickie; his sons, Charlie and Jess; their mother, Stephanie; his honourary daughter Rachel; his four grandchildren (Leo, William, Zoe, and Ben); his brother Mike (Jeanne); his sisters Fran (Bill), Bobbie (Cliff) and Nan (John); as well as a multitude of nephews and nieces, great-nephews and great-nieces.

Thanks to Retirement Concepts Comox Valley Seniors Village and the caring staff in the ICU at North Island Hospital Comox Valley.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the heart and stroke foundation.