It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Gordon Cardwell, on July 13, 2024, at the Mississauga Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family.

Gordon was the beloved and devoted husband of 67 years to Caroldean and the proud and loving father of Dawn and Wayne (Jennifer). Fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews in Canada and the United Kingdom; children to predeceased siblings Walter, Vera, Margaret and Ian and sisters-in-law Brenda, Gwendelyn and Jacqueline.

Gordon was born in Sowerby Bridge, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom to Tommy and Christiana Cardwell on February 9, 1934. Growing up during the challenging war years, Gordon and his siblings were taught by their parents to be creative, resourceful, and hands-on. For Gordon, this grew into an exceptional talent to build or fix anything, a talent that he passed onto others throughout his life.

At the age of 18, Gordon enlisted in the British Royal Army Service Corps and achieved the rank of corporal. His service took him on many adventures, from a deployment in Egypt to being part of a military team responsible for logistics at the coronation of Queen Elizabeth ll. Following his demobilization, Gordon became a toffee boiler at Mackintosh in Halifax, UK, where he made toffees that are still part of the Quality Street tin today.

It was during his time in the Royal Army Service Corps that Gordon met Caroldean Jones. In 1957, Gordon and Caroldean were married. They went on to have two children – Dawn and Wayne – who Gordon was immensely proud of. Gordon and Caroldean spent the early years of their marriage living and working in Halifax, UK and in 1965 they emigrated to Canada with their young family, settling in Richmond Hill, Ontario.

Embracing sport and the outdoors in Canada, Gordon was a self-taught backcountry canoeist, a long-distance cyclist, and a competitive level soccer referee. Gordon shared his love for the outdoors with his family through many camping and canoeing adventures throughout Canada and the U.S.

Gordon worked with Ratcliffs Canada for 35 years where he developed specialized skill sets as a heavy machinery operator and maintenance technician. He was a loyal and committed member of the Ratcliffs team, earning the respect of his colleagues and building lifelong friendships.

Following his retirement, Gordon was not ready to slow down. He continued with long-distance cycling, traveling with Caroldean and he worked as a school crossing guard until his early eighties; a responsibility that he truly loved, and he was loved right back by children and parents alike as "Mr. C".

Our Gordon was a modest gentleman who cared so dearly for his family and would have done anything for anyone of us. An honourable man who quietly punched above his weight for as long as we have known and loved him.

A celebration of Gordon’s life, with close family and friends, will be held at a later day.

If so desired, donations in Gordon’s memory to Trillium Health Partners Foundation would be appreciated. (please use the donation tab at top right to make a donation)