Thursday, March 2, 2017
When Mel Friesen called to let me know of Gord's passing, I was swamped by many wonderful memories of times spent with him, and of course, Marge, at the farm and on many other occasions with the Wheatland Chorus.
I had the privilege to conduct that group for several years and valued Gord's many contributions to all the singing, show planning and socializing that he so often spearheaded. I had been singing barbershop since my teens and was convinced by Ken Cooper to get involved with the chorus in the late sixties. Most especially I enjoyed Gord's contributions as a singer/entertainer with the Melotones ... Gord on bari, Ken on tenor Fred on lead and Mel on bass. What a fine, fine group they were and what joy they gave to SO MANY people. A few years after Ken passed away, they asked me to join them as tenor and I spent some of the best and most pleasing years that I have ever experienced as a barbershopper with that wonderful quartet. What an honour THAT was ! I still remember some of the show gags and lines ... especially Gord, after been nailed with the usual bald joke, turning with a smile and telling the audience that it was a long time since he had been forced to use a board in a barber chair then turn with along knowing stare at Mel (add laughs and applause here)
Of course, while living ant teaching in Regina I was well aware of Gord's participation in a multitude of things including family connections with the Lions Band, the Shriners and the activity of playing the bagpipes MUCH later on. While I never heard him play, he was pretty proud when talking about that accomplishment.
The write up of his life correctly describes the farm (or ranch as some of us smilingly referred to it) as one of the most welcoming homes in the province. Both he and Marge were the most kind, friendly and generous people that one could ever hope to meet.
Even though I have been in Newfoundland since the 80's, I kept in touch with Gord (and Mel) on some of my visits home. A coffee and chat were very important to remind me of times past ... and Gord would keep me up to date with recent exploits.
I visited him last nearly a year ago when he was in the Pasqua hospital. He certainly had slowed a step or two, but still had his good humour and twinkle in his eye.
To his family I express my condolences... because, of course, they will miss him.
However, there is no doubt that much of the good he did will live on in your hearts as it does certainly in mine, and likewise in the hearts and minds of anyone who knew him.
Sincerely,
Doug Dunsmore
(St. John’s Newfoundland)
