Gordon Michael Dew

1969-2022

Gordon Michael Dew passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Coldstream BC, January 20, 2022. Gordon was born in Vernon March 15, 1969 and pre-deceased by his parents Audrey and Bennett Dew. Gordon is survived by his brothers Todd (Karen) Dew, David (Barb) Dew, James Scott McLeod and Sister Helen (Ron) Stavast. Gordon was pre-deceased by brothers Jim (Lynn) Dew and Dale (Linda) Dew and Brian McLeod.

Gordon’s mother Audrey dedicated herself to giving Gordon as normal a life as possible. She believed that anything he could do for himself, he should do for himself. So Gordon developed many skills which were within his abilities. When company would visit Gordon would take everyone’s coats, hats and shoes and most often put them in the closet (but not always). When he felt you had stayed long enough, he would bring your coat, hat and shoes and usher you to the door. Gordon was a very efficient bus boy around home, but you had better not doddle while eating your meal. Often the slowest eater lost their plate before they were really finished.

Many simple things would bring joy to Gordon. Balloons, music; especially bag pipe and marching band music, animated movies with uplifting songs, the National Anthem, dressing up in whatever hats coats or boots he could find in the closet whether they fit or preferably not, parades, chips, hamburgers, coke, fries, donuts!

Gordon was exposed to a variety of different experiences. He participated in Special Olympics, was an enthusiastic bowler and swimmer, enjoyed therapeutic horseback riding, made several trips to Disneyland, ceramics, crafts and playing his saxophone. He was also a surprisingly wiry wrestling opponent.

Those who knew Gordon, understood he was nonverbal but that didn’t mean he couldn’t communicate. You could clearly understand when he wanted his favorite hamburger, Coke and fries. When he didn’t want to do something, he could clearly say no!

Gordon had spent the last 30 years of his life with Kindale Developmental Association and the last 20 years at his current home, Middleton House. All the Kindale staff over the years loved and cared for Gordon. They really made a home for him and gave him an enriched life. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Kindale at https://www.kindale.net.

Gordon always endeared himself to those around him and was always a happy joyful soul. He had his place in the world and the people around him loved and appreciated him. He will be missed.

Gordon will be interned at Vernon Columbarium near his mother and father. An outdoor memorial reception for Gordon will be held in the spring. The reception will include many of Gordon’s favorite things, a celebration that he would enjoy attending himself.

Funeral Arrangements have been entrusted to Pleasant Valley Funeral Home,

Phone: 250-542-4333

Condolences may be offered at www.pleasantvalleyfh.com