May 17, 1953 – October 9, 2022

It is with sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Gordon Wilson Dewar (May 17, 1953 – October 9, 2022). Gordon passed away peacefully in his sleep, having enjoyed his favourite things (good food and music) until his very last day.

Gordon was predeceased by his parents, Jim and Edna Dewar of Kamloops, and is survived by his sisters, Hilary Wahlstrom (Keith) of Salt Spring Island, BC, Rona Tennant (Alan) of Calgary, AB, and Elaine Dewar (Shorty) of Saranac Lake, NY. He is also survived by four nieces and nephews and five great nieces and nephews.

Gordon was born in Scotland, then spent his early years in Cyprus.

Gordon’s parents were astounded that he could understand and respond to requests in both Greek and Turkish despite remaining non-verbal himself. After Cyprus, Gordon moved with his family to England and in 1970, he followed his family to Canada.

Gordon spent his days listening to everything from classical music to pop, and reggae. He always appreciated live performances, but could be quite the critic, too. If you made a mistake, he might show his displeasure by getting up and leaving the room. Gordon was a long-time member of the Kamloops Fiddlers’ Society, joining them to listen to rehearsals and performances until the advent of the pandemic.

Thanks to the innovative thinking and progressive policies of Kamloops Society for Community Inclusion and It’s My Life Kamloops Society, Gordon, who had autism, lived his very best life. He took part in many diverse activities including helping feed animals at the petting zoo, attending hockey games, and going swimming and fishing.

Over the years, Gordon had many great caregivers, but extra special gratitude must go to Ken Phillips and Pam Casselman who went way above and beyond in providing care and making a home for Gordon. During the last two decades of his life, Gordon shared a home with Steven Plotnikoff, whose mother, Sharon Chum, treated Gordon like a second son.

The family is grateful to the many different people who featured in Gordon’s life over the years. We will all miss his mischievous sense of humour and hope that everyone will remember his antics with a smile.

There will be no formal service for Gordon, but should anyone wish to make a donation in his name, please consider It’s My Life Kamloops Society or The Canadian National Autism Foundation.

To express a message of condolence, visit Schoening Funeral Service.

• Date : 2022-10-09
• Location : Kamloops