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Gordon Eric James

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Gordon Eric James

September 15, 1931 - April 30, 2026

Beloved husband of the late Joan. Loving father of Wendy Pilon (Alvin), Janis Birrell (David), Brian James (Helena) and Paul James (Bev). Proud grandfather of Matthew, Laura, Sam, Rosalind, Lucy, Greg, Emily and Kevin and great grandfather of James and Cash. Predeceased by his parents Eric and Mary James and sister June and nephew Norman. Remembered by nieces Penny and Vicki.

Gord was a highly intelligent and respected man. He didn’t often say too much, but when he did, it was something profound and you remembered it. Retired from Singer business machines in his mid 50’s. Eventually he and his wife Joan sold their properties in the city and moved to Vernonville Ontario where they built their forever home. He loved the outdoors and working on his property. Gord also enjoyed woodworking and built many aspects of their country home himself, including kitchen cupboards, furniture and other finishings. Gord and Joan were active in the community, participated in local events and for many years delivered Meals on Wheels together. They both loved music and attended many music in the park venues both here and in Florida where they wintered for many years. They also volunteered for many years at the Shelter Valley Folk festivals

In his younger days, Gord was also an avid nature photographer, mostly of birds. Travelled the country from his home base in Ontario to Tuktoyaktuk in NWT and many places in between. Spent many hours perched in trees to get the perfect shot and had many of his pictures published in various magazines and nature books.

Gord will be interred next to his beloved wife Joan in the Vernonville Cemetery.

Message Of Condolence

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MESSAGES OF CONDOLENCE / DONATIONS

Giselle McKenzie - May 11, 2026

My deepest condolences to the family. I pray for comfort the bereaved. Rest in peace Mr James.

Barb and Al Harnden - May 11, 2026

Sending my deepest condolences to Gord’s family. He was such a wonderful man, quiet and gentle. A great friend to Doug and Paula (my parents) - they spent so many hours visiting back and forth. May the souls of Joan, mom and dad be reunited together .

leslie benson - May 9, 2026

I'm very sad to hear of Gord's passing. Their volunteer contributions to the Shelter Valley Folk Festival were huge, recognized and so appreciated. They were such a pleasure to work with for many years. I miss them both.

Barbara Buntin - May 9, 2026

It was a pleasure to get to know Joan and Gord over the many years we all volunteered and enjoyed Shelter Valley Folk Festival. Gord was always calm, quiet and observant, as befitting a good bird photographer. Our sympathies to their family, Barbara and Andrew Buntin

Lesley Marie Boileau - May 8, 2026

I'm so sorry to hear of Gord's passing, he was a big part of the SVFF community for a long time. My condolences.

Hamilton MAY - May 7, 2026

GORD - I regret that my many invitations did not get us out for a meal together, but I will always cherish the Christmas Nut Cracker ornaments you let me have when Joan passed as memories of many happy times together. They will be with me to the end.

Dorothy Rutherford - May 7, 2026

So very sorry to hear of Gord's passing . Had many cups of coffee with Gord and his late wife Joan, when they lived in Vernonville. M y condolences to the family!

Lian de Graauw - May 7, 2026

My sincere condolences to the family. Rest in peace.

Ray and Janet Webb - May 6, 2026

We have only known Gord for a few years at Brighton Retirement Living residence. He was well known and liked and will be missed. Our sympathy to his family.

Theresa Stanley - May 6, 2026

I feel lucky to have known Gordon and his late wife Joan. I met them through our coffee group that meets at Tim Hortons in Colborne. After Joan passed, Gordon was still very active, loved to drive and help anyone in need. You will be missed! Condolences to your family❤️

Jean Vanleeuwen - May 5, 2026

I'm saddened to hear of Gord's passing. There were many dinners shared with the Turk Rd neighbour's and I especially enjoyed anticipating his Christmas card to see what bird photo he had enclosed!Joan and Gord were wonderful neighbour's and will be missed.

Tony Van leeuwen - May 5, 2026

My sincere condolences to the family, Gord has been a long time friend, actually since they moved to Vernonville. May your fond memories help you through this difficult time.

Rebecca Breau - May 5, 2026

Gord will be greatly missed by my Mom and Dad, Gayle and David Jones and I enjoyed many dinners and visits with him in Brighton. Condolences to his family.

Jim and Sheila - May 5, 2026

We will mis Gord and Joan. We met for dinner somewhere every Frieda for 25 years rest in peace Gord. Nice to see that you will be next to your love Joan

Caroline Barnes - May 5, 2026

Rest in Peace Mr James 🙏

Audrey Shewan - May 5, 2026

We will miss Gord here at Brighton retirement.RIP