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C. OREN GILMORE Obituary pic

C. OREN GILMORE

Date of Passing: Feb 27, 2015

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C. OREN GILMORE, CA, FCA It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dad, C. Oren Gilmore, with his boys at his side, on February 27, 2015, just two days after his 85th birthday. Dad was predeceased by our mom, Bette Gilmore; his older brothers, Albert (and his wife Marian) and John; his parents, Carlyle and Ocella; and his in-laws, Jock and Peg Walker. He is survived by his sons, David (Kathryn), Colin (Leah), Glenn (Leesa); grandchildren, Lauren, Alex, Riley, Ben, Bailey, Cameron and Alyssa; sister-in-law Ellen Gilmore and numerous nieces and nephews. Dad and mom were married in 1959 and settled in the Westwood area to raise their three boys. They were married for over 52 wonderful years before mom's passing in 2012. Dad grew up in Fort Rouge on Rosedale Street. He played soccer and hockey at Lord Roberts C.C. and soccer for the Kelvin Technical High School team. He was an avid curler and golfed at Breezy Bend Country Club. When he wasn't playing sports, he enjoyed watching them. He was a longtime season ticket holder of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, the first version of the Winnipeg Jets and the Manitoba Moose. He was also a proud spectator of his grandchildren's sporting and school events. After high school, dad worked at the downtown Eaton's store until he headed off to work the first of four straight summers at Minaki Lodge, beginning in 1949. In the fall of that same year, he came back to Winnipeg to work at Peat, Marwick, Mitchell & Co. and enroll in Accountancy at the University of Manitoba. Dad pledged the fraternity of Sigma Lambda Phi in 1950 and later became their President. He received his Chartered Accountant (CA) designation in 1957, went on to work for the Department of National Revenue for a brief period of time before working at CN in internal audit at both the Winnipeg and Moncton offices. During this time, he was a Governor and President of the Institute of Internal Auditors. Dad was the Comptroller for CN in Winnipeg before he joined the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Manitoba as their Executive Director in 1966, a position he held until his retirement in 1996. For conspicuous service to the profession, dad was elected as an FCA in 1970 and he was further recognized on his retirement with the creation of the C.O. Gilmore Bronze Medal for the candidate with the third highest marks in the province on the UFE, as well as, a fund in his name in the Manitoba Chartered Accountants Foundation Inc. Dad had a long history of being a volunteer in the community. He was a hockey and baseball coach and hockey convenor at Kirkfield-Westwood C.C., a member of the Board of Directors of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, the St. James Canadians Jr. Hockey Club and Deer Lodge Curling Club. He also volunteered at the Grace Hospital's Community Breakfast with Santa, where he put his Donald Duck impersonation and costume to good use, entertaining children. The family would like to thank all the great staff of 3 North at the Grace Hospital for the care and attention that they gave our dad. A celebration of dad's life will take place on Thursday, March 5, 2015 at Breezy Bend Country Club, 7620 Roblin Blvd., Headingley, MB at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in dad's name to the Grace Hospital Foundation, the Alzheimer's Society of Manitoba or the C. Oren Gilmore Fund in the Manitoba Chartered Accountants Foundation Inc. 204-782-3541

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 03, 2015

Condolences & Memories (27 entries)

  • We were saddened to read of Oren's passing. We were neighbours (2 houses down) for 8 years. We enjoyed many neighbourly conversations with them. Our son and daughter knew the boys well. Our daughter Karen was a good friend of Glenn. They often walked to Westwood Collegiate together. Glenn was a special friend to her. We moved to Vancouver in 1981. We have many fond remembrances of this family and send our condolences to David, Colin and Glenn and all family members. - Posted by: The Fisher family (neighbours) on: Apr 12, 2016

  • Oren attended our Christmas Breakfast with Santa every year in his Donald Duck outfit. He provided entertainment and encouragement to both parents and kids. As a CA he always encouraged me to be the best I could be in managing the Hospital and being a leader in our community. I will miss his selfless giving to others. Major, - Posted by: John McFarlane (former CEO of Grace Hospital) on: Mar 10, 2015

  • I moved away from Winnipeg over twenty years ago, but you never forget those who you admire. Oren was always friendly, full of humor and helpful to me during a time of crisis. His dedication to family, the Institute of CA's and the Winnipeg community was outstanding .My sincere condolences to the Oren 's family. Dave Lloyd friend - Posted by: David Lloyd (Friend) on: Mar 07, 2015

  • Dave I was sorry to hear of your father's passing. I did not know him but I knew you and am very sorry for your loss. Time passes so quickly and then reflection occures when someone we love dies. Take care. - Posted by: Carolyn Kinsman (Old friend) on: Mar 06, 2015

  • Hello David, Colin & Glenn, I was so sorry to learn about Uncle Oren's passing. He will always be in my memory full of laughter & good humour, loving and kind-hearted. I regret that our families drifted apart. I remember Uncle Oren telling us he was colour blind when we were all together @ Silver Lake, so Wendy & I would continually ask what colour our clothes were. He'd say "pink with purple polka dots" and we'd both squeal with delight, which made him laugh - and of course there was always the Donald Duck voice. Well, the three brothers are now reunited but so cruel that all three had Alzheimers to deal with at the end. Wishing you all peace and the comfort of good memories, Nancy Gilmore - Posted by: Nancy Gilmore (niece) on: Mar 05, 2015

  • Hi David, Colin and Glenn. I am very sorry to hear about 'Mr. Gilmore'. He hired me in 1986 (ICAM) and I worked for him until he retired. He was great to work with and always had a smile on his face. His Donald Duck impressions, his train hat and whistle stand out the most. My sincerest condolences to your families. - Posted by: Petra Noack Menzies (Co-worker) on: Mar 05, 2015

  • Although I had fully intended to be with you today to celebrate Oren's life, I woke this morning with a dreadful cold that I do not wish to pass on to others... but I will be thinking of him at 11:00. Oren was a great support to me in my activities with the Institute. As a member employed in government I was feeling somewhat distanced from the CA profession when Oren convinced to become involved, first with committee work, and then as a member of Council. His encouragement opened up a great opportunities for me and for that, and for the good memories of times working together, I am grateful. - Posted by: Roger Dennis, FCA (friend) on: Mar 05, 2015

  • Hey guys, sorry to hear about the loss of your Dad. I spent some good years as part of "Gilmores Gorillas" hockey team in Westwood, and I look back on those times very fondly. Great memories of Bette and Gramma Walker too. Your Dad did all he could to provide the best minor hockey experience to any kid wanting to participate. Wishing you all my sincerest condolences. - Posted by: Scott Sylvester () on: Mar 04, 2015

  • As part of the happy gang at Breezy Bend, we were blessed with Oren's presence. He always had a smile and offered encouragement as we played around the course. Oren was first to arrive and had all of our tee times organized for that day and for the following week. I have many fond memories of Oren and he is a friend who will be missed. My sincere condolences to Oren's family. Rest in peace, Oren. - Posted by: Doug Prophet (Golfing buddy, Happy Gang, Breezy Bend) on: Mar 04, 2015

  • David, Colin & Glen; very sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. I really enjoyed working with him during my years on the Institute Council. He was a great ambassador for the CA's both within the profession and the community. - Posted by: Gordon A Horne (Friend) on: Mar 04, 2015

  • My sincerest condolences to David, Colin and Glenn and your families. - Posted by: marvin fetch (friend) on: Mar 04, 2015

  • A lovely tribute to your dad and all he accomplished in his lifetime. He touched alot of lives and made the world a better place. The venue for the memorial service is so appropriate. Your Mom and Dad spent many happy hours there. I will not be able to attend, but you will be in my thoughts. - Posted by: Bernice Heinrichs (Glenn's mother-in-law) on: Mar 04, 2015

  • Oren was "Mr. Manitoba Institute", servng the profession with grace and style for 30 years. A well respected and outstanding professional with a great sense of humour, and a pretty good "Donald Duck" imitation. Barb and I are out of country and will be unable to attend the celebration of life to pay our respects in person. Our condolences to the family. - Posted by: Brent J. McLean FCA (friend) on: Mar 03, 2015

  • Mom (Muriel James) enjoyed working for "COG" for many years & considered herself very fortunate to find someone willing to take a chance on an older worker. My children have fond memories of visiting Nana's tower workplace & seeing that 'Donald Duck man' pop out from various hiding places! My granddaughter also appreciated the duck-talking lessons at Mom's last milestone birthday party 9 years ago. ;-) Heaven has become a more entertaining place, but know you'll have tons of wonderful memories to cherish. - Posted by: Pat Allan (family of former co-worker/friend) on: Mar 03, 2015

  • As a fraternity brother of Oren's, and as CEO of the Certified General Accountants Association for many years during Oren's career with The Institute of Chartered Accountants, we had many opportunities to meet and enjoy our professional and other interests. Oren was indeed a gentleman and always welcomed the opportunity for a chin wag, especially sports....most likely the Jets! Thank you for what you did for the profession and the community. Len Hampson FCGA CEO Emeritus CGA Manitoba - Posted by: Len Hampson FCGA (Colleague, Frat Brother) on: Mar 03, 2015

  • Sorry to hear of Nero's passing. He was a friend as far back as the 50's. He will be missed. We have lost a gentle soul. - Posted by: Terry barber (friend) on: Mar 03, 2015

  • Oren provided very positive leadership to the CA profession over the years of his tenure. He was a great support for me during my term on Council and as President of the Institute. His commitment and his sense of humour were traits that I always noted and appreciated. - Posted by: Del Crewson (CA Profession) on: Mar 03, 2015

  • David, Colin & Glen, We are very sorry to hear that Oren passed away. Unfortunately, we are away and unable to attend Oren's service this week. I (Ken) worked closely with Oren several years ago when I was President. Oren was very supportive and over the years we spent many good times together including golf games and social evenings with Harold Neufeld and Fred Betton. Oren would come to our house in his Donald Duck costume and entertain our girls with his DD lingo!! Oren was a good friend personally and to the Institute and all members. Rest in peace Oren. Sincerely, Ken & Susanne Matchett - Posted by: Ken & Susanne Matchett (Friends) on: Mar 03, 2015

  • Some of us were fortunate to have had Oren as Executive Director of the Institute during our days as students and then graduates of the program. Oren was always welcoming and personable to those of us who were just entering the profession and developing our careers, and he provided a down-to-earth but professional "persona" for the Institute. - Posted by: Al Babiuk (Manitoba CA) on: Mar 03, 2015

  • Now Oren doesn't have to book tee times or wait for frost delays. He co-ordinated our weekend AM golf group, The Happy Gang. He always had a smile and a witty comment. When Bette needed him at home, he gave up golf for a while, but still managed to attend a few lunches. He would tell us the laundry tips Bette passed on to him and explained that he was making his own breakfasts. However, the guys congratulated him on being able to pour his own cereal! We have and will miss his herding us off the First Tee. Peace be with you Oren, Bette and the Family. - Posted by: Rick Graboski (Friend and golfing buddy.) on: Mar 03, 2015

  • MY sincere condolences to Oren's family. Oren was a wonderful person to work with at the Institute of Chartered Accountants and he made a very significant contribution to so many of the young students coming through the program. They will all remember him with great appreciation for his assistance through the years. - Posted by: Jim Clarke (Institute of Chartered Accountants of Manitoba) on: Mar 03, 2015

  • Glenn, David and Colin. Sorry to hear about your Dad's passing. He was a great person - not just as a neighbor and hockey coach and a chauffeur to school on numerous cold mornings, but a mentor to a number of CAs like myself that would have probably pursued other paths if not for your Dad's intellect, insight and guidance. - Posted by: Jim Defer (Former Neighbor) on: Mar 03, 2015

  • Sincere sympathy, Aurele J. LeClaire - Posted by: Aurele J. LeClaire () on: Mar 03, 2015

  • I think I speak for all my family when I say that we all have very fond memories of being with Uncle Oren and Aunt Bette and the boys. Oren was my father's brother who he adored. When our family lived in Thunder Bay, we made regular trips to Winnipeg to visit with our "Winnipeg Gilmores" and I remember enjoying hanging out at their house and Oren always picked up buckets of Kentucky Fried Chicken and entertained us with his "duck talk". Before my father, John, passed away, I made a trip to Winnipeg with my Mom and Dad and we spent some time with Oren and Bette. Dad wasn't talking much then, he had become somewhat affected by Alzheimer's, but he grinned ear to ear when he saw Oren. I remember Bette refering to them as the "2 old geezers" and I am happy that the "2 old geezers" are smiling together now! Alison Watson - Posted by: Alison Watson (Oren's niece) on: Mar 03, 2015

  • We remember Oren as a neighbor on Shakespeare Bay and his visits on Halloween dressed in his Duck costume. Sorry we can't attend the celebration of life at Breezy Bend as we are on holiday in Texas. Our Sympathy to the family. - Posted by: Harvey & Marion Goehring (A neighbor on Shakespeare Bay) on: Mar 03, 2015

  • Very sad to hear the news. Our sincerest best wishes to Oren's family. We were neighbors for about 14 years and Bette and Oren were the absolute best neighbors you could ask for. We have a lot of very fond memories of our time with them. Oren was a wonderful, warm, caring individual who possessed a fabulous sense of humor. RIP. - Posted by: Betty and Ric Bender (Neighbors ) on: Mar 03, 2015

  • Hello David, Colin and Glenn. I'm so sorry to hear that Uncle Oren passed away. I have such great memories of him and all of you on our annual trips to Winnipeg and when Rich and I lived there for a while. Our dads were so happy when they were together and I like to believe they are together again now. Their illness was a terrible thing. Take care. My mom will give you hugs from all of us. Love you, Lori. - Posted by: Lori Nemeth (Cousin) on: Mar 03, 2015

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