Gordon James Beckett
Gordon passed away peacefully on November 19, 2015 after a long illness with his family by his side. His past 4 years have been defined by a struggle with Alzheimer’s disease, during which time he and his family where profoundly grateful for the endless support of friends and extended family. Gordon was rich in friends during his long life devoted to being with others, and to the pleasures of good food and drink, music, art, and company.
Born in Winnipeg on May 24, 1939 to Alfreda (Nixon) and James Beckett, Gordon was drawn to creative pursuits in an atmosphere that did not always encourage them. He was joined by his brother Glen at the age of 8, and although he may not have appreciated him at the time, the brothers grew close later in life. Gordon loved going to Arizona to spend time with his brother Glen and his dear sister-in-law Kay.
Gordon had a strong desire for education, and for experiencing all life had to offer. After studying to be an accountant he moved to Toronto, where he attended Trinity College at the University of Toronto to pursue divinity studies, for which he received a Masters of Divinity. It was, however, only after he left his faith in god behind that he found his true calling in the study of people. He studied at the New School in New York City, University of Waterloo and then University of Guelph where he was awarded a Masters degree in psychology, eventually going on to teach early childhood education at Sheridan College.
In 1969 Gordon met Elizabeth and they were married in 1970. Gordon and Elizabeth had two daughters, Kathleen (Kate) and Julianna, and lived in Hamilton, Ontario, where they thrived with a community of friends centered around the First Unitarian Church of Hamilton. They built their lives around the pleasures of community, hosting dinner parties, and traveling with friends. They raised their children to be tolerant, loving, and generous, and worked to create an inclusive community that promoted the flourishing of all people within it. Gordon also loved music. He was a member of the Bach Elgar choir and the Church choir, and his pleasant bass was often heard, singing the music of Gershwin and Sondheim. He was a patron of art and culture, a cheerful humanist, and an endless optimist who found his joy in the joy of others.

All who knew Gordon will miss him deeply. Please join his family for a memorial service at the First Unitarian Church of Hamilton on Dec 5th at 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society.