Matheson, Gordon Everett – Gordon Everett Matheson, known affectionately as "Gully" to his friends and family, passed away on June 20th, 2023, in Colchester East Hants Health Centre with his family by his side. Born in 1942, in Brookfield, he was a son of the late Tom and Florence Matheson and was the 8th of 10 children.
Gordon is survived by his wife, Myrna; daughter, Pam (Oleg Vydykhan); son, Heath; granddaughters, Katya, Gertie and Talia, who lovingly referred to him as their “Pappy”; sisters, Edna Graham, Wilma Avila, and Letha Mowatt; brothers, Johnny, Hugh, Winston, and Vaughn (Gab). He was predeceased by his sister, Verna Locke and, brother Ken.
In his youth, he and his brothers were a formidable force on the ice, and his love of hockey would remain a lifelong passion. By his mid-thirties, after a successful career in banking and business, Gordon chose to pursue his dream of becoming an engineer. He graduated from the University of New Brunswick as a civil engineer and took great pride in his work with the government of New Brunswick, overseeing the construction of hospitals and schools. Finishing his career as Director of Construction Services, he was widely recognized for his leadership, expertise and commitment to his field. Retirement brought Gordon back to his hometown of Brookfield, where he embraced an active lifestyle as an avid golfer, curler, hockey player, and pickleball enthusiast. Gordon and Myrna had many great adventures travelling together around the world. From Japan to the Netherlands, Australia to New Zealand, and Scotland to Ireland and Iceland, Myrna’s travel journal documents adventures filled with natural wonders, historical locations and, most importantly to Gordon, impressive industrial sites. Gordon had an immense love for cars and could effortlessly name and describe every car he had ever owned, and there were many! He possessed a remarkable talent for building and fixing things. His workshop, organized with military precision, was the envy of all. There was no project too challenging for Pappy, and if you knew him, he had probably helped you with something. Always keen to be the first adopter, Pappy was proud of his electric cars, field of Haskap berries, and his substantial array of solar panels. In his later years, one of Pappy's greatest joys was supporting his granddaughters in their volleyball pursuits. Known to volleyball players across the province as the dedicated grandfather who never missed a game, he followed their progress across the country with unwavering enthusiasm. A recent highlight was witnessing Talia's Dalhousie Tigers secure the AUS championship and National bronze medal— moments he celebrated with immense pride. Beloved by his family, Gordon positively impacted the lives of countless individuals and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Many thanks to the Palliative Care Team at Colchester East Hants Health Centre, the doctors and nurses and the many people who brought our family comfort by calling, messaging and visiting while Gordon was in the hospital. Rest in peace Pappy.
Gordon’s service will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, July 16, 2023 at Knox United Church in Brookfield, with Reverend Michael Henderson officiating. A reception will follow. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to Knox United Church, Canadian Cancer Society or a local charity of your choice.
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