Peter Lawrence GORDY
December 4, 1930 – January 15, 2014
It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that Peter’ s family announce his peaceful passing on January 15, 2014 in Nanaimo, BC at the age of 84. He will be lovingly remembered by; daughters, Elizabeth and Patricia; wife Rita Carolyn; and stepchildren, Janet (Paul), Julie, and John (Lise). Pete so loved and was well loved by his step grand children, Amanda, Emily, Alex, Madison, Malendy, Per, Bjorn, Adalea; and his step great grand daughter Zoe. Peter was predeceased by his first wife, Pearl Alexandra; sister, Elsie; and brothers Mike, John, and Bill.
Peter was born in Kimberley BC. Growing up in the mountains created a life long love of the outdoors and a passion for exploring. The family moved to Vancouver and lived on Hawks Avenue in Strathcona. He attended Britannia High School where he excelled in science, and was the backbone of the Senior English Rugby and Canadian Football teams. After high school, Peter enrolled in UBC to study geology. He lived in rooming houses, rode the street cars, and relied on bursaries and seasonal work in the coal mines of the Elk Valley to pay his way.
After graduating from UBC in Geology in 1954, Peter joined Shell Canada’s Exploration department in Calgary, AB becoming a well-respected expert in the structural geology of the Rocky Mountains. He was a frequent presenter on the Distinguished Lecture Tour, and also authored numerous scientific papers. Peter retired after an eminent career to his much beloved Bowser, BC. Peter had many interests, including fishing, woodworking, traveling in his RV, golf and bridge, a game in which he became a life master.
In 2001, Peter suffered a life altering spinal cord injury. Through sheer strength of will and stubborn determination, he fought valiantly to regain his mobility. Peter Gordy was a proud and strong man. He loved the grandeur of the mountains, the inspiration of classical music, the satisfaction of working with his hands, the stimulation of intelligent discourse, and always...a good scotch.
Peter’s family would like to extend their deepest thanks to his caregivers at Dufferin Place during his final months. He will be missed by a multitude of friends. A private gathering has taken place in Qualicum Beach. Should friends desire, the family requests consideration of donations to the UBC Geology Bursary Fund in his name.
To send a condolence to the family please visit
www.yatesfuneral.ca
YATES FUNERAL SERVICE & CREMATORIUM
(250-248-5859) in care of arrangements.