April 15, 1927 - February 17, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that the family regretfully announces the passing of our father "Gord" in his 98th year. He is son of the late Louis and Wilhelmina Saunders of Winnipeg.
He will be reunited with his wife Beth. Proud father of Gary (Nancy), David (Elizabeth), Lori (late Wally), Greg (Erin) and Janet (Stephen). Much loved "Gramps" of Sara (Ben), Hilary, Nora-Beth (Joey), Courtney (Sean), Nikki (Tyler), Rilee (Joel), Amy, Jamie (Kaylee), Ben (Ali), Timothy (Brittany) and Matthew. Great grandfather of 14. He leaves behind his sister, Marilyn Smith (late Lloyd) and is predeceased by his brother Hank (late Bernice). Life-time friend of Sarah and Julia Taylor and the Lukenda family. Special friend of Pat Berry. He will be missed by many other nieces and nephews.
Gord was actively involved in the Canadian YMCA movement for 71 years, beginning as a 10-year-old member of the Winnipeg YMCA in 1937. In 1967 he moved his family to Sault Ste. Marie to become the executive secretary of the YMCA of Sault Ste. Marie, where he has been the longest serving CEO there, retiring in 1990. He was appointed to the YMCA Fellowship of honour, where he received the Governor General's Award in Ottawa in 2009. He had many talents, including making wine, maple syrup and woodworking, having built his own house and the family cottage at Wanasing Beach.
Passing away on Family day was the perfect day for our dad. He was such a committed family man and supported so many others, with their families through his work and joy at the YMCA.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Driftwood Beach on the 3rd Floor at the F.J. Davey Home for their care and compassion. We would also like to thank the staff and friends at the Peninsula Manor in Marathon.
As per Gord's request a Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, May 10, 2025 at 1:00 pm with the venue to be announced at a later time. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations (made payable by cheque or online) to the Sault YMCA , the F.J. Davey Home or a charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. E., 705-759-2522). Please visit www.arthurfuneralhome.com obituaries section to leave a message of condolence as a keepsake for the family.