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GORDON DONALD TEMPLE
Gordie leaves to mourn: wife Claudette, family, and many friends.
Gordie was born September 29, 1932. He grew up and lived over 80 years in Manitoba and attended school in Winnipeg.
As a teenager he was employed at Dominion Bridge, T Eaton Co., and the Canadian Pacific Railway. He started full time employment with Manitoba Telephone System (MTS) in 1950 as an apprentice in the Cable and Line departments. In the 38 years he worked at MTS he held positions in Winnipeg, Thompson, and Steinbach, Manitoba. He retired in 1988 as Area General Manager, Eastern Manitoba Region. From May 1989 to October 2002, he worked summers at the Steinbach Fly-In Golf Course in the Pro-Shop.
Gordie and Claudette were married in 1951 and celebrated their 73rd anniversary in December 2024. They are the proud parents of daughter Linda, son Craig (Lee), and son Grant (Michelle). They have eight grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. Gordie is also survived by his sister Risé-Gail Thompson (Dave) and sister-in-law Yvonne Bunkowsky (Garry) and many nieces and nephews.
Gordie was always very involved with Service Organizations. He served over 55 years with Lions International and received the Melvin Jones Award for his service to the club and community. He held positions as president of the Steinbach Chamber of Commerce and Canadian Legion Branch 104. He served on the board of the Steinbach United Church, Agape House Women’s Shelter, the Wildwood Community Club, and for several years delivered "Meals on Wheels" in Steinbach.
As a youth, Gordie was a member of the HMCS Naval Cadets, and the Lord Strathcona Horse Army Cadets. He played many sports from hockey to baseball and football. He excelled in bowling, curling, badminton, and especially golf, winning many trophies over the years.
Gordie and Claudette enjoyed travelling. After retiring they visited most of Canada and the United States. They also explored Mexico, Australia, Europe, and North Africa. Winters were spent in Texas, Arizona, or Osoyoos, BC. In 2017, they moved to Penticton, BC.
Gordie was a wonderful husband, father and neighbour. He was known for his great sense of humour and being a generous and caring friend. He was dedicated to his church and rarely missed a Sunday service. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
Our thanks to his caring doctors, the hospital staff at Penticton Hospital and Kelowna Cancer Care.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 10, 2025
Condolences & Memories (4 entries)
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One of my favorite stories my dad told us was that by 1944 or 12 years old, he was the toughest SOB in his school. Events in the world would have a great effect on my dad's early life and personality. He told us that every day, at school, he had to pledge allegiance to the flag, of which he did. Then he had to pledge allegiance to the Queen, of which he did. What happened next would show his loyalty to family and his personality beyond those early formative years. His teacher made every student stand up and announce their family heritage. Dad stood up each day and announced he was 'German' ... in fact he was Austrian (not sure that would have been any better at the time) and he said, 'Every recess and every lunch I had to defend my family honour,' he was a second generation Canadian at that point but that didn't matter. He was not ashamed of his heritage, and he said it always made him want to know someone's story before he judged them. - Posted by: Grant Bentley Temple (Son) on: May 19, 2025
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Gordie was my first foreman when I started with MTS in 1977. He picked me up at my Dad's house and drove me to Steinbach for my first day. I never forgot the kindness he showed to a young guy just starting out. He will be missed, condolences to the family. - Posted by: Andy Fredborg (Former MTS) on: May 10, 2025
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Gord was one of the nicest people I ever worked with. We had lots of collaboration & laughs working in the north. Gord & Claudette often called us over the past several years and vice Verda. It was always good to learn about their life in retirement and how content they were. No mention was made of his recent medical issues so it was truly sad news to learn of his passing. Our hearts go out to Claudette and the family. Hopefully there is solace in knowing Gord live a good productive life. We join you in mourning his passing. - Posted by: Bob Beavis (Friend & co-worker) on: May 10, 2025
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Gord was a good friend who was always willing to lend a hand. He offered to keep me company on some of the longer road trips I took when I started moving up in Lions. We spent many hours in the car talking about life in general and his love of serving others. I will miss him and his sage advice and council. Rest in peace my friend. - Posted by: Chris Barnard (Friend and fellow Lion) on: May 10, 2025