Gordon George Cousins

December 1, 2015

COUSINS, Gordon George
Aug 10, 1948 - Dec 1, 2015

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a great man, Gordon George Cousins. Surrounded by his wife and children; his brief, hard fought and courageous battle with AML came to an end on Tuesday, December 1, 2015, at the age of 67 years. He will be greatly missed by his wife of 39 years, Jean; children, Jason, Douglas (Kelly), James (Becky), Heather (Aaron); his 9 precious grandchildren, Breanne, Katie, Tyler, James, Gracie, Jessica, Cody, Weston, and Hunter; and his mother, Eleanor Cousins. Gordon is predeceased by his father, Howard Cousins; and his dear brother, Douglas Cousins. Gordon was born in Mississauga, ON and later moved to Calgary in 1975. He lived a full life, raising 4 children, owning a business with Jean for 40 years, and numerous involvements in the community. Some of his passions included his church, the Calgary Highlander Cadet Corps, winter camping, canoeing, teaching youth outdoor survival skills, and the value of respect, honor and team work. "Band Together" "It is better to fly with the eagles, then waddle with the weasels" "Many hands make light work". Gordon was a son, husband, father, brother, papa, uncle, Captain, and most importantly a friend and mentor to many. He strived to leave behind a legacy and a heritage that can continue onward. His successes have ultimately been a result of his undying faith in his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Even though we mourn his loss and feel his absence, we are left with joy and hope knowing that we will be together again. Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects at Alternatives Funeral & Cremation Services, 12 East Lake Way NE, Airdrie, AB on Tuesday, December 8, 2015 from 6:00 – 8:00 pm. A Celebration of Gordon's Life with be held at First Assembly Church, 6031 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB on Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 1:00 pm. Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gordon’s memory to either Youth Unlimited (www.yudonate.ca) or Magic of Christmas (www.themagicofchristmas.org/donate).

Messages of Condolence

Our dear family in Calgary our hearts are with you as we join you in grieving for a truly unique human being. Gordon is a one of a kind. We can only hope to carry a little of his generous and open spirit in our hearts. We will miss him. His strength of will to live and his strength in accepting the end are examples to us all. Please accept our love and support from Daniela, Adam, Sasha, Nicole and Peter.

- Daniela Cousins

You ran the race well my friend, even though you could never persuade me to go "winter camping"!!! 25 years of doing that was enough for me, but I may join you when I see you again in heaven. You have left an awesome legacy mate, as the Lord would say "Well done MY good and faithful servant" you made a difference and positively impacted many. Aye yours & God continue to bless those you leave behind till you are all reunited in the future.

- Denis & Sheree Iffla

Lana and I were so shocked and sorry to hear of Gord's recent passing. Please accept our deepest condolences at this time.

- Michael Woodhead

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all! Gord will always be remembered by us as someone who could talk your ear off but in the best way. He had so many stories of things he had done, people he helped one way or another and people he wanted to help! He had a great sense of humour and we loved sharing meals together and laughing over so many things. He will forever be in our memories and we look forward to the day we meet Gord again in Glory!

- Patti and Greg Boser

Shocking news. A very good man who impacted many, many lives! My thoughts and prayers are with his family!

- Russ Meades

To the family and friends. I'm deeply saddened to hear of Gords passing. I knew him through The Calgary Highlanders. I'll be praying for you

- Darrell Calonge

Best wishes, Gord.

- Barb and Darrell Knight

Although I have not seen him in many years, when I heard of Gord's passing I remember thinking, how Gord - always known to me as Lt.Cousins impacted the lives of all the youth he came in contact with not only as a teacher, but as a counselor, guide and friend. His integrity and passion inspired many people and help mold children into well rounded men and women. I had the privilege of being one of the many to whom his life lessons were passed unto, and will always be thankful for such a well rounded, caring man. My prayers and thoughts are with you and our family. The Justus'

- Shawn Justus

Please accept my condolences on the passing of Gord. Such a sad loss for those of us left here without him. It was an absolute honor to have known such a great man. I especially loved having him on my team as he ran around connecting with as many newcomers to the church as possible. When I'd have a good interaction with a newcomer, Gord would always come over, put his paw on my shoulder and express how excited he was that new people were venturing into our church. He was always so intentional with those around him. What an amazing man. So now as he has passed, may God embrace you all in comfort during this difficult time. May you be filled with love as you reflect on his memories and encouraged as you see his impact on others lives be lived out. With love and condolences. Maria Friesen

- Maria Friesen (Nndem)

Jean and Family - we were very sorry to hear of Gord's passing - he lived and grew up just around the corner from us in Port Credit and our two families were great friends - Gord and my brother Larry had many adventures at our family cottage. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

- Judie (Braid) and Bob Cooper

Jean and Family, I am deeply saddened to hear of Gords passing. We go back a long ways to Public and High School. Lots of electronic projects tackled together. I still remember the two of us camping on what our Mothers called "Poison Ivy Island" at our cottage. The poison Ivy was so tall, it looked more like a bush. Mom screamed at us to get back to the cottage and wash with sunlight soap. Gords Mom was there also. Unfortunately Gord was more susceptible to Poison Ivy than I was and he got quite a dose. I could go on and on with stories from over 50 years ago. wow, the time has sure gone fast. May he rest in peace, and yes we will all be together one day. Take care Jean. Larry

- Larry Braid

You are in our thoughts and prayers. Gord was one of those 'bigger than life' people who will never be forgotten. We are glad to have had the opportunity to know and work with him.

- Wade & Adele Hammond

Jean and family; My deepest sympathy to you on Gordon's passing. He was a good man, loving husband, father, and grandfather. May your wonderful memories give you comfort during this difficult time.

- Joanne Ottway

I was shocked and surprised to hear about Gord passing away. Lada and I would like to pass on our condolences to the family. I have had the pleasure of knowing and working with Gord for a number of years and found him very professional and supportive. The passing of Gord is a loss for all who he has been in contact with.

- Don Klisowsky

I enjoyed knowing and working with Gordon over many years. To Jean and all Gord's family my sincere condolences and sympathy in your loss.

- John Baron

I couldn't believe it when I heard the news that Gord had passed away. I always remember him as a vibrant man full of life and energy, a true gentleman at all times. I knew Gord through his tireless, volunteer efforts through the Calgary Highlander Cadets and I can honestly say many would be hard pressed to meet the level of effort and enthusiasm that Gord brought to our young people. While it is a difficult and emotional time, please remember that Gord was loved by many who have will have many wonderful stories to share with you all. My condolences to all of you. Fiona

- Fiona G. McLean

Condolences to Gords family. I worked with Gord here in Whitehorse providing Canoe skills to the Cadets. Gord had a heart of gold and really wanted all the kids to succeed. I was surprised at his passing as I am heading to Calgary in the new year and was hoping to stop in to say hi and see where he put his big Yukon Burl. Gord will be missed as he touched many.

- Trevor Braun

MY GORD, I'M REMEMBERING LOTS OF GOOD TIMES RIGHT NOW. YOU WERE MY BIG BROTHER AT TRINITY . YOU AND JEAN WERE SUCH A BIG CHUNK OF MY FAMILY THERE AND YOU WILL NEVER LEAVE MY HEART. I REMEMBER OUR TALKS IN QUIET MOMENTS. THANKYOU FOR YOUR PATIENCE AND STILLNESS WITH ME. I MISS YOU .....SEE YOU SOON. MY JEAN, CLOSE YOUR EYES AND IMAGINE I'M RIGHT THERE GIVING YOU A BIG HUG . I'D WHISPER SOME ENCOURAGING WORDS, BUT THERE'S A BIG LUMP IN MY THROAT ! MY JESUS, KEEP SPECIAL CARE OF JEAN . HOLD HER TIGHT !!

- SHERRY (MOVING HOME TO CALGARY REAL SOON)

I am shocked to read of the passing of my old friend and colleague in business. Yes, I listened to many of Gord's stories of long hikes in forests and adventures in canoes, all part of his love for helping others live that good life. However, I knew Gord as a successful businessman who was always polite and very encouraging to his colleagues. He was an inspiration to me with an ability to carefully guide the thinking of others in a direction that was well thought out. He was a wonderful person who will be missed. Wishing Jean comfort in the great memories he has left with you and your family.

- Des Townshend

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