Charles Alexander (Chook) Gordon

With heavy hearts and faith filled tears, we announce the passing of Charles Alexander (Chook) Gordon, at the age of 87. He died peacefully in the early morning of March 18th, 2024. He spent the previous day surrounded by loved ones, sharing stories, laughter, and watching the World Curling Championship games.

Born in Sydney Mines on July 6th, 1936, Chook was the loving son of the late Alexander and Ada (Bown) Gordon. In 1956, Chook met the love of his life, Janet (Jennie) Gouthro and they began to build their life together. In 66 years of love, they created a family that would surpass all their wildest dreams. Charles leaves behind his adoring wife, who he reminded several times a day how much he loved her! His children, which he was so proud of and looked forward to every visit: Anne (Kevin) MacKenzie, Mike (Annette), Sue (Randy) Spurrell, Donnie (Jeanette), Dave, Joe (Carrie), Terry (David) MacKenzie, Peggy (Tom Marsh), Angela, and Erin (Josh) Kaiser. Chook dearly loved his 16 grandchildren: Justin (Brianne), Luke (Sam), Curt (Natasha), Brent (Nikki) MacKenzie, Michael (Paula), Jennifer (Jeff Canizares), Neil (Campbell), Alison (Brandon O’Laughlin), Ainsley Gordon, Emily (Lyndon MacLeod), Stephen Spurrell, Katie (Isaac) Longard, Bobby, Ben (Gillian), Jake (Lauren) Gordon, and Maisie Kaiser. When he didn’t think his heart could be fuller, it expanded further with the addition of his 21 great grandchildren: Grace, Jude, Ada, James, Madelyn, Gavin, Malcolm, Stevie Lynn, Mabel, Elsie, Ella, Keeley, Boston, Oscar, Mila, Charlie, Elise, Isabel (deceased), Angus, Oliver, and Suede.

Besides his parents, Chook was predeceased by his sisters Betty (John) Sisnett and Sr. Ada Gordon; his brothers Bobby, Billy, Skipper and John (Maurine) Gordon. Chook is survived by his sisters, Theresa and Frances Gordon.  

Chook spent his professional career as a Miner in both the Princess and Prince Mine. In his free time, he had a passion for harness racing, as well as fishing and spending time with his family and friends. We all have fond memories of our summer trips to PEI, the days before seatbelts and passenger restrictions.

 Chook was an avid carpenter, learning the trade from his Uncle Bernie Bown. He built our family home, and was always there to help family and friends with whatever projects they had on the go. He was quick to share his opinion on the “right way” to do it, whether it was asked or not, and most often he was right.

After his retirement, he found new ways to spend his time, because slowing down was not an option for him. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren, and if willing, he would teach them the art of blueberry picking. He knew the best spots and knew how to divert strangers from getting too close to his berries. He would return with the berries and Ma would use them to make delicious treats for all to enjoy. This applied to Strawberry picking as well. His wise words of wisdom, “If you don’t like the berries in your bucket, you only have one person to blame!”. 

Being called Da, Poppy and Grand-poppy were his greatest titles, for his family was his greatest achievement. He is dearly missed but his faith paved the way for us to know this is not the end, only a different beginning, and we will see him again. Until that time, he will live with us in our hearts, in our memories and stories shared, and in the laughter he brought to our lives (not always intended) but definitely appreciated. Rest well, we love you, now always and forever!

The family would like to acknowledge the wonderful care Chook received during the last several months at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Northside General Hospital and Harbourview Hospital. We send our heart felt thanks to the care providers: EHS responders, Doctors, nurses, CCA’S, and VON nurses. Special thanks to Dr Michele McKeough for Chook’s care throughout his lifetime. Thank you.

Cremation has taken place. There will be visitation on Thursday, March 21st, 5-8pm, at the JM Jobes Funeral Home in Sydney Mines. The funeral mass will be held on Friday, March 22nd at 10am, at the Holy Family Parish Hall, Main St, Sydney Mines.