GILBERT GORDON BROWN

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GILBERT GORDON BROWN June 20, 1921 - March 22, 2014 It is with sorrow we announce the death of Gilbert Gordon Brown (Gib). He will be warmly remembered by his wife of 68 years, Geraldine, sons Ted of Toronto, Phillip and wife Leslie of Winnipeg, three cherished grandchildren Ian, Derek, and Kelsey, nieces and nephews in Manitoba, British Columbia and Ontario. He was predeceased by five brothers and two sisters, his favourite sister Phyllis Nixon of Vernon, BC died only recently. Gilbert was born in Gilbert Plains, MB, and at an early age was involved in a car/train accident near Grandview, in which his mother was killed, his father disabled and Gilbert hospitalized. As a result of this trauma, he experienced many life challenges among which was his decision to become a teacher. Consequently, with little financial help but with courage and determination, he not only received Vancouver Normal School Diploma but also a BA, MA and Bachelor of Education degree all from the University of British Columbia. During his 40 year teaching career he taught French to English school students in Victoria, BC and English to French military students in Quebec. In retirement and now living in Winnipeg he was a volunteer for 10 years with the Winnipeg Branch of USC Canada (founder Dr. Hitchmanova). He found satisfaction in knowing the money raised, often through shopping mall craft sales, was used for important projects such as "Seeds for Survival" in Ethiopia and/or in Mali "Desertification and Drought" projects. In addition, he was a member of the Winnipeg Branch, United Nations Association and also supported such peace organizations as Project Plough Shares and anti-poverty associations such as LITE (Local Investment Towards Employment) and others. His final years were troubled as a result of a major depressive disorder following a stroke. Our thanks to the Kildonan Personal Care Centre for exceptional, professional and kind care. A somewhat sad ending to a very productive life. Gib has requested that there be no funeral, but if you wish to remember him, consider a donation to www.usc-Canada.org/donatenow

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 25, 2014