Gordon Sterling Robert Rowan
September 14th, 2018
Gordon Sterling Robert Rowan, 89, passed away on Friday, September 14, 2018 at the Langley Hospice following a brief illness.
Gordon was predeceased by his brother, Jack. He leaves his wife of 57 years, Margaret (Crow) Rowan; his children, Susan Werboweski, David, Andrea (Remi Dubé); his grandchildren, Kristjana, Heather, Gabriel and Benjamin; his sister, Joy Snarr; brother and sister-in-law, Bill and Val Crow; and nieces and nephews, Bill Crow, Cathy Killeen, Gordon Snarr and Kimberly Carlstrom.
Gordon was born in Winnipeg and attained his Chartered Accountancy designation through the University of Manitoba in 1956. He worked for two CA firms, George A. Touch & Co. and Clarkson, Gordon & Co. before starting his long career at the Canadian National Railway in Winnipeg in the Internal Audit department. He was transferred to the Company’s head office in Montreal in 1965 and held various positions in the Accounting, Taxation and Finance departments. He retired in 1993 as Assistant Treasurer of the Company.
Gordon was also an exceptional teacher and lectured Accounting and Finance on a part time basis at the University of Manitoba and McGill University (1959 to 1999).
Earlier in his life Gordon was very active with the Air Force Reserves (RCAF-402 Sqn/17 wing) as well as Scouts Canada, serving many roles starting with Assistant Cub Leader and ending with District Commissioner. Gord will be sorely missed.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, October 6, at 2:00 PM, at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 20097- 72 Ave, Langley, BC V2Y 1S7.
In lieu of flowers a donation to Langley Hospice Society would be greatly appreciated.
You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence for the family.
Messages:
We are so sorry to hear of Uncle Gordie's passing. I have fond memories of our family visits together, and vacationing in Barbados. I also remember and appreciate his great sense of humour, genuine care, patience and interest in well being of others. You will be greatly missed Uncle Gordie. Our deepest condolences to his Auntie Margaret, David, Susan, Andrea and their families.
My sincere condolences to Andrea and her family. We were very sad to hear the news. Our thoughts are with you all! Martine , Joe, Anaïs!
I offer my condolences to Andrea and family at this time of loss. May your memories be filled with thoughts of good and happy times shared together.
It is so sad to say goodbye to Uncle Gordie. I remember his humour, and he always had sound financial advice if one cared to ask. As a young adult he recomended that I read The Wealthy Barber, and that has stuck with me as a good guide throughout my life! Thank you Uncle Gordie. My sympathies to David, Susan, Andrea and Auntie Margaret.
We had the honour and pleasure to know Gord, unfortunately it was only for a few years. We enjoyed our visits and Gord's great sense of humour. We extend our deepest condolences to Margaret and family.
In the short time I knew Gordon he became a great friend and so enjoyed our talks together. My deepest sympathy to the Family.
Gordon was a wonderful mentor to me and made a point of caring for me and my family far beyond what a 'normal' professional relationship might warrant. I am forever grateful to both Margaret and Gordon for giving me the opportunity to get to know them. Gordon was always firm and fair; I'm left saddened by his passing but thankful for the times we spent together. My deepest condolences to Margaret, Dave, Andrea, Susan and the grandchildren all of whom he loved so much.
I am truly sorry for your loss. Mr. Rowan will be missed. He was a kind and compassionate man and he will be cherished in my memories forever. I think of him as a role model as a father, husband, professional, and person of character. My deepest sympathies to you, Mrs. Rowan, and Andrea, Susan, David and your extended family.
Gordon's passing was indeed sad news and at the same time, brought back many great memories of times together during my Scouting days with him. He and his assistant Dave Holman were kind and thoughtful mentors. Gordon and Dave were great role models and patient with their young charges. We learned many life skills in their company and I am forever grateful. Gordon will be greatly missed and our sympathy and condolences go out to Marg and his family.
It is with deepest sympathy and condolences to his family. He was truly loved by all those who knew him.
I was very sad to read of Gordon's passing. I have fond memories of my visits with both him and Margaret. My condolences to Margaret and family. May he Rest In Peace. Ashanti