Dickey, Gordon Everett – Age 81 of Upper Musquodoboit. It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gordon Everett Dickey. He passed peacefully on August 23, 2017, surrounded by his family. Gordon was a son of the late Harry and Janie (Bowden) Dickey of Parrsboro.
He is survived by the love of his life of 59 years, Shirley (Lamb); and their children, Lola Hill, Eva (Kenneth) Deal, Arthur (Edna), John (Teena), and Martha (Kirby) Brown. Gordon and Shirley had 13 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. He loved them deeply. He is also survived by his brother, Ralph (Judy); his sister, Helen Hutt; and his sister-in-law, Thelma Dickey; as well as many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, Lloyd; brother-in-law, Lawson Hutt; and son-in-law, Robin Hill.
Gordon was a man with quiet strength, who worked his whole life in the forest industry, beginning his career as a canterman in Wyvern, taking his team of horses to the woods in the winter sledding logs. He began his sawing career at C.E. Harrison and Sons under the tutelage of his friend and mentor, Wylie Gallagher. Gordon moved his family to the Musquodoboit Valley in 1966, sawing for Gilroy Brothers and then McCully and Soy for 18 years in Upper Musquodoboit. In the mid-80’s through the mid-90’s, Gordon’s talent and drive led him to sawing for George Cooley in Thorburn, B.A. Fraser in Margaree, Clint Dixon Sawmill in Thorburn, Julimar Lumber in Brookfield, Hefler Forest Products in Sackville, retiring from Groupe Savoie in West River. He was happy to pass on his knowledge to all young men interested in sawing. In retirement, he pursued his love of wood and woodworking, which he inherited from his father and grandfather, through the many exceptionally beautiful pieces of furniture that can be found in his home and the homes of his children.
He was a devoted member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, first joining the Ivanhoe IOOF Lodge in Parrsboro in 1953. He transferred to Craigmyle IOOF in Middle Musquodoboit and upon its closing, he then transferred to Phoenix IOOF in Truro. He recently received his 60 Year Jewel. Gordon lived the three tenets of the IOOF: Friendship, Love and Truth, every day of his life.
Gordon was a member of the Canadian Paperworkers Union, and was President of the Local in Upper Musquodoboit for several years. He believed in volunteering and giving back to his community. He and Shirley enjoyed square dancing, ATV trips, their cottage, Sunday drives, good food, many very good friends and good music, especially the fiddle.
The family extends a deep and heartfelt thank you to Dr. Barry Giffin for his exceptional care over many years. Gordon was very grateful. Also, a special thank you to the Continuing Care Nursing Services staff for their kind assistance.
Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be on Sunday from 6-8 p.m., and a service to celebrate Gordon’s life will be on Monday at 2 p.m., both in St. James United Church, Upper Musquodoboit, Rev. Michael Henderson officiating. By request, family flowers only. Donations in Gordon’s memory may be made to the Lung Association Nova Scotia or a charity of your choice.
Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.
“The best love is the kind that awakens the soul; that makes us reach for more, that plants the fire in our hearts and brings peace to our minds. That's what I hope to give you forever.” ~Unknown
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