Obituary for Gordon William Vallance
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gord Vallance, loving father, brother and grandfather, who passed away unexpectedly on May 25, 2021.
He leaves to mourn, his wife Linda, son Travis (Ghislaine), daughter Brandy (Erik) and grandchildren Liam and Claire. Also left to mourn are his sisters Kimberly, Alana & Alison (John); brothers Carl, Craig (VG) and Bradley; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Gord was predeceased by parents Robert Vallance, Donna Seavers, step-father Ernie and brother Jack.
His working career spanned 47 years beginning at Universal Printers in the bindery. In time, he was given the opportunity to become a journeyman, learning how to work with a team operating the presses. He worked there from 1968 – 1975. Universal Printers was purchased by Canadian Publishers in 1975 and the company moved from Sherwin Road to Dunlop Avenue. Canadian Publishers was then purchased by Transcontinental Printing. Altogether, Gord worked there from 1975 – 1991.
From 1992 – 1997 he began his courier career working for Goodway Express and Sterling Transportation. In learning this business, he realized he could manage his own company. In 1997 he went out on his own as G.W. Vallance Transfer. He retired from driving in 2018.
Gord was happiest in his boat fishing or spending countless winter hours on his ski-doo. He generously included many family and friends in these endeavours. Lots of laughs and good times were shared by all.
Music was a large part of Gord’s life. Many fond memories of our trips to Catherine Lake were filled with music from CCR, Beach Boys, Roy Orbison, Elvis, The Beatles, Dwight Yoakam, Rod Stewart and Three Dog Night (to name a few). This could be heard constantly as it was the centre of his genuine happiness.
On the football front, he was a life-long Edmonton Eskimos fan. He could tell you ALL the pertinent stats about the team. In the earlier days, there were many recorded games on VHS.
Gord loved the mountains, and was fascinated with Mount Everest. He collected books and documentaries, held recurring discussions on the subject, and even had a Mount Everest shower curtain!
Gord had a natural charisma connecting with, and teaching young minds. It was a true testament to the love of his own inner child. He loved to bring young people to the sport of walleye slinging, and the fun of water sports. In the winter months, he could always be found pulling family and friends around on the sleigh or snow racers. The thermos of hot chocolate and a wiener roast was the cherry on top.
He was a loyal friend, and a great father. He was always transparent in who he was. Words cannot express the loss of a man who was taken too soon. His legacy will live on in all who knew him. Rest easy.
As per Gord’s request, cremation has taken place.
A memorial will be announced at a later date.
He leaves to mourn, his wife Linda, son Travis (Ghislaine), daughter Brandy (Erik) and grandchildren Liam and Claire. Also left to mourn are his sisters Kimberly, Alana & Alison (John); brothers Carl, Craig (VG) and Bradley; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Gord was predeceased by parents Robert Vallance, Donna Seavers, step-father Ernie and brother Jack.
His working career spanned 47 years beginning at Universal Printers in the bindery. In time, he was given the opportunity to become a journeyman, learning how to work with a team operating the presses. He worked there from 1968 – 1975. Universal Printers was purchased by Canadian Publishers in 1975 and the company moved from Sherwin Road to Dunlop Avenue. Canadian Publishers was then purchased by Transcontinental Printing. Altogether, Gord worked there from 1975 – 1991.
From 1992 – 1997 he began his courier career working for Goodway Express and Sterling Transportation. In learning this business, he realized he could manage his own company. In 1997 he went out on his own as G.W. Vallance Transfer. He retired from driving in 2018.
Gord was happiest in his boat fishing or spending countless winter hours on his ski-doo. He generously included many family and friends in these endeavours. Lots of laughs and good times were shared by all.
Music was a large part of Gord’s life. Many fond memories of our trips to Catherine Lake were filled with music from CCR, Beach Boys, Roy Orbison, Elvis, The Beatles, Dwight Yoakam, Rod Stewart and Three Dog Night (to name a few). This could be heard constantly as it was the centre of his genuine happiness.
On the football front, he was a life-long Edmonton Eskimos fan. He could tell you ALL the pertinent stats about the team. In the earlier days, there were many recorded games on VHS.
Gord loved the mountains, and was fascinated with Mount Everest. He collected books and documentaries, held recurring discussions on the subject, and even had a Mount Everest shower curtain!
Gord had a natural charisma connecting with, and teaching young minds. It was a true testament to the love of his own inner child. He loved to bring young people to the sport of walleye slinging, and the fun of water sports. In the winter months, he could always be found pulling family and friends around on the sleigh or snow racers. The thermos of hot chocolate and a wiener roast was the cherry on top.
He was a loyal friend, and a great father. He was always transparent in who he was. Words cannot express the loss of a man who was taken too soon. His legacy will live on in all who knew him. Rest easy.
As per Gord’s request, cremation has taken place.
A memorial will be announced at a later date.