GORDON C. KERR

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GORDON C. KERR Peacefully on December 22, 2006, Gordon Kerr passed away at his Kelowna home with his family by his side. Throughout his 1 year battle with cancer, Gordon's wife of 53 years, Sheila, provided exceptional care, love, patience and support. Our heartfelt thanks to our mother and grandmother for her devotion and strong will during this difficult time. In addition, Gordon's sister Joyce, sons, Gord Jr. (Nancy), Richard (Sonora), Todd and beloved grandchildren, James, Danni and Jennifer mourn the loss of Gordon. Gordon was born in Winnipeg on May 12, 1932. Growing up in the West End, hockey was his passion and would be throughout his life. Gord showcased his exceptional hockey skills while patrolling right wing for the West End Orioles. Gord was drafted by the Montreal Canadiens and played several years of professional hockey in various leagues. An industrial accident, while working at a summer job, cut his professional career short so Gord hung up the gloves and picked up a referee whistle. Gord became one of the finest hockey officials ever produced in Manitoba. Gord was the Referee-in-Chief of the Manitoba Amateur Hockey association for over 30 years. He refereed in the Memorial Cup, Allan Cup and Centennial Cup. He gained international notoriety by refereeing in the 1972 Olympic Games in Sapporo, Japan and the 1976 Olympic Games in Innsbruck, Austria. In addition Gord refereed in the World Hockey Association for 7 years. Gord's hard work, dedication and skills were recognized with 2 Citations of Merit from the City of Winnipeg. In 1990, Gord's achievements were immortalized through his induction into the Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame in the official's category. Gordon was employed with the Manitoba Liquor Control Commission for over 33 years, retiring as the warehouse manager in 1987. Gordon's other passion was golf. Gordon had been a member of Assiniboine Golf Club and Breezy Bend Country Club for many years. Following retirement Gordon and Sheila moved west to Kelowna to pursue that ever elusive year round golf season. Gordon was a member of both Sunset Ranch and The Bear golf courses. During his retirement , Gord was employed at the Harvest Golf and Country Club as the starter. Free golf apparel, golf talk, tees and greens, dad finally found his dream job. Dad had charisma, charm and wit and greeted each golfer on the first tee like they had been friends for years. Many Harvest Country Club visitors commented on the gregarious charismatic starter on the first tee. He was indeed a unique individual. Gordon was also a Hall of Fame grandfather to James, Danni and Jennifer. He loved his grandchildren and they loved him. Their beloved Papa is dearly missed and will never be forgotten. Gordon will be remembered as a loving and caring man who gave so much of himself to help others. His warm smile, quick wit and charismatic personality will live on. You are in a better place now old friend. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. Memorial service: Monday January 8, 2007, 1:00 p.m., Kirkfield Park United Church, 472 Kirkfield, Winnipeg, Manitoba.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 06, 2007