January 17, 1933 – November 14, 2024   

Gordon was born on January 17, 1933, in Espanola, ON and died November 14, 2024, in Kamloops, B.C. 

“Gordie’s” story spans nine decades. Born to Irmine and Walter MacDonald, he grew up with his younger brother, Harry, in White Fish Falls and Manitoulin Island, ON. After losing his father at an early age, he began work to support his family. Gordon enlisted in the Canadian Army with the Princess Patricia Canadian Light Infantry from 1951 to 1954 and served in the Korean War. Returning from the war, Gordon transitioned to his career as a locomotive engineer, which mirrored his childhood passion for all things trains. Gordon married Margaret (nee Kolenko) in 1962 and started his family in Wabush, Newfoundland. Over the following four years, their family grew to include Tammy, Lynn, Kim and Stuart. Gordon worked across this country from east to west, landing in Quesnel, B.C. in 1972 working for BC Rail. In the more than 20 years in Quesnel, Gordon made his community a better place and was known for his willingness to help his neighbors and friends with projects large or small. He moved to Kamloops, B.C. in 1994 and retired in 1998 to start a new chapter. Joining the Kamloops Heritage Railway Society, Gordon was instrumental in both the restoration and operation of the 2141 Steam Locomotive. He shared his love for the railway with all that were lucky enough to ride the 2141. Gordon has managed to touch many lives as he journeyed though his life. 

Gordon was predeceased by their daughter, Tammy Ann, and his parents, Walter and Irmine MacDonald. Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 62 years, Margaret Ann, and their children: Lynn MacDonald and her husband, Tony Oliveira; Kim MacDonald and Stuart MacDonald (Serena). Gord will be missed by his grandchildren, Keegan and Lola MacDonald; his brother, Harry MacDonald (Rita); his niece, Kelly Tries (Frank); and nephews, Chris MacDonald (Anne), Michael MacDonald (Tish) and Mark MacDonald (Karen). 

A faithful member of the Catholic church since birth, Gordon’s faith was evident to all who knew him. It was easily displayed in his notion of hospitality and true loyalty. Godon touched many people throughout his life with his humble kindness and sharp wit. Gorden’s devotion to the Catholic faith and God shaped his life in every way. To have known him was to have loved him. He will be missed and remembered by all. 

A Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church: 2797 Sunset Dr., Kamloops, B.C. At 10:15 a.m. on Saturday, November 23. A prayer service will also be held on Friday, November 22 at 7:30 p.m. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Kamloops at www. ssvp.ca 

You may offer a message of condolence at Schoening Funeral Service for the MacDonald family.

• Date : 2024-11-14
• Location : Kamloops