GORDON ARNOLD FINCH

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GORDON ARNOLD FINCH August 23, 1937 - January 26, 2014 It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our dear father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and uncle. Gord is survived by his son Glen (Liz), daughter Colleen (Kim), granddaughters Courtney, Kira, Carissa, Carly and Kelly, his step-granddaughters Morgan, Hayley and Brooklyn, great-granddaughter Katrina, his brothers Ron (Marlene), Ray (Joy), sister-in law Lorraine and numerous nieces and nephews. He held a special place in his heart for his nephew and friend Heath and wife Michelle. Born and raised in Winnipeg, Gord married the love of his life and soul mate Darryl Ann Burlington September 24, 1960. Together they raised their two children and shared a life of love and laughter until Darryl's untimely passing on January 15, 2008. He started his career as an electrician in the late 50's in Winnipeg. Gord joined Air Canada as an electrician in Winnipeg in 1967 and his 29 years at Air Canada took his family to Montreal and then, in 1980, back to Winnipeg . Gord took early retirement in early 1998 where upon Darryl and Gord settled as camp ground hosts at Birds Hill Park in the first few summers of retirement. This led to Gord taking on the job as the electrician for the park for several years where he was quickly tagged as "Sparky". His work at Birds Hill led to him doing electrical work for the Winnipeg Folk Festival quickly becoming the site electrician beginning in 2001. Little did Sparky' know at the time how important Birds Hill Park, the Winnipeg Folk Festival and his Festival Family would become in his life. His years at the Folk Festival were some of his most treasured and his Festival Family among his most treasured friends. He was very proud of his work and was humbled by receiving the Folk Festival's "Glass Banjo" award in 2012. Gord was a life-long Ham radio operator. To many around the world, he was simply VE4GF. His "Ham Shack" was his refuge and his passion. Gord's greatest joys in life though, were his granddaughters. He doted on them and adored sharing updates about the girls. He never missed a chance to share his love, knowledge or encouragement with them or to share their stories to just about anyone who would listen. The family would like to thank the many nurses, doctors and caregivers that cared for Gord throughout his illnesses. Most especially though, there are no words to express the depth of gratitude we have for Heath and Michelle for their selfless love, support and devotion. A celebration of Gord's life will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2014 at 2:00 pm at John Black United Church, 898 Henderson Highway. Reception to follow immediately after the service in the church hall. Glen Eden Funeral Home & Cemetery 338-7111

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 08, 2014