HARRY GIBSON BURDON

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HARRY GIBSON BURDON December 12, 1924 - April 22, 2012 Dad was born in his home in Moose Jaw to John James Burdon and Ann Elizabeth Burdon (Bedford). Dad is survived by his sisters Dot (Bob deceased, Clarence deceased) and Margaret (Doug). His brother Jim (Dot) predeceased him. Dad's siblings were important to him and there were many memorable times spent together. Dad had many nieces and nephews. After schooling in Moose Jaw Dad worked for the local newspaper. At the outbreak of the Second World War Dad joined the navy and did active service on the east coast of Canada. After the war he started his career as an electrician and finally caught up with Mum (who he always said was faster than him) and they married in 1947. They had three daughters before transferring to Winnipeg where two sons completed the family Jan, Joan (Larry) Spate, Pat (Mark) Meulman, Doug, and Fred (Meghan). Dad had many talents. His excellence as a track athlete has been duly recorded on many pages of the Moose Jaw Herald and the many trophies and medals that he won. Dad was an avid football player and played not only as a youngster but also in the Navy. Dad was also an exceptional hockey player. Curling was a passion and Dad participated on the rink up to Christmas last year. His ability to read the game was outstanding. On the less active side Dad and Mum and the family played Scrabble, Crib and cards where he was a keen competitor. The Christmas tree always had a new jigsaw puzzle which Dad would complete in no time. Dad was a genius when it came to renovating houses. He worked alongside Doug and Fred to help create two unique homes. This was a passion for Dad. Creating, planning, implementing and most importantly helping his family who he dearly loved. Dad's commitment to Christian outreach dominated his life. Dad was an active member of the A.O.T.S. for all his adult life serving in many key leadership roles. For 57 years Dad volunteered at the now Riverview Hospital assisting patients to their weekly Sunday service. For many years he coordinated this program. His children often were involved. But Dad's commitment to community service didn't stop there. Dad spent many hours volunteering at the Orioles Community Centre and actually served time as President. Dad never said no to anyone who needed help...in fact he relished being asked. Dad's giving was not only physical. Dad was diligent in supporting those less fortunate than himself. Even in his death Dad has continued to give with acceptance of his body to Science. Dad supported all our endeavors even if it did not fall into his realm of interest or understanding. Dad attended football games, baseball games, hockey, track and field, opera, musicals, concerts, and theatre restaurants as well as supporting us in our school endeavors. This support continued as grandchildren and great-grandchildren arrived. Jorie, Kelly, Gavin, Holly, Aaron, Dylan, Nathan, Joel, Tristan, Nicola, Johanna, Harris, Katie, Ashleigh, Scott, Catherine, Isabella, and Jackson. Dad's greatest joy was to have his family around. Dad knew the value of the home garden and throughout his life provided the family with a harvest of beautiful vegetables. Dad lived his life to the fullest. We will miss him. In lieu of flowers, if so desired, donations may be made to the Continuing Staff Education Fund in memory of Muriel Burdon, Lion's Personal Care Centre Memorial Donation, Director of Spiritual Care, 320 Sherbrook St., Winnipeg, MB R3B 2W6. NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE (204) 949-2200 www.nbardal.mb.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 28, 2012