Obituary of DR. GORDON RICHARD GRAHAME MD, FRCPC

It is with deep respect that we announce the passing of Gordon Richard Grahame on March 28, 2024, at the age of 91. Surrounded by his loving family, Gordon’s journey came to a peaceful close. He was predeceased by his wife of more than 60 years Moira, son John and his sister Ruth (Bob) Cooke.

Gordon is fondly remembered by his son Stephen (Pam), grandchildren Claire (Alex), Robyn (Jason) and Spencer (Annika), alongside his friends, Mark Torchia and Pat Hill as well as a host of extended family.

Born and raised in Winnipeg, Gordon's favorite days were spent at Stony Mountain and later, at West Hawk Lake, igniting a lifelong affection for the serenity of nature. His path led him to the University of Manitoba, where he graduated as a doctor in 1957, a milestone marking the beginning of a distinguished career in medicine. Gordon's life took a turn for the forever when he met Moira McGill at Deer Lodge Hospital, where she worked with the Red Cross. He loved her fiery auburn hair and incredible intellect; he always admitted that his wife was smarter than him.

His career as a general internist saw him leave imprints of his expertise and compassionate care across borders, from London, England to Birmingham, Alabama and back home to Winnipeg in the halls of St. Boniface Hospital, HSC Winnipeg, and the University of Manitoba’s Faculty of Medicine. Known for his straightforward approach and direct manner, Gordon was a caring mentor who shared his knowledge and experience generously, though his stern and oftentimes gruff exterior belied a profoundly kind bedside manner that earned him the universal respect of his patients.

Gordon's work extended beyond his medical practice reflecting his passion for community. His connection to the YMCA was strong, beginning in the 1940s when he travelled by steam engine to Camp Stephens, an experience he loved to share with his two sons and later, three grandchildren who all attended with his support. Gordon’s personal values of inclusion, integrity and family led him to be a strong advocate for his son John. This advocacy led to his son being the first person with a mental handicap to attend YMCA summer camp in Manitoba, paving the way for those that followed.

His favourite pastime was spending time at the family cabin at West Hawk Lake. Gordon’s love for West Hawk Lake was shared with Moira and passed down through generations. Gordon found most joy in solving the everyday problems associated with owning a remote cabin, believing that everything could be fixed with the stuff from the gashouse.

He loved Birkenstocks, bird watching with Moira, travelling, clogs, Tilley hats, shirts with pockets for his pencil, political observation, and was a member of Red River Valley Railroad, was passionate about his grandchildren and had an unwavering commitment to his family.

The family extends their gratitude to the Gaynor Family Regional Library for enriching Gordon’s final years with the gift of literature, reflecting his wide-ranging curiosities, especially Kristen, who took the time to get to know Gordon’s voracious and varied interests and brought him a steady supply of reading material. The family would also like to thank Dr. Ian Alexander for his respectful and kind care.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to Selkirk and District Community Foundation - Inclusion Selkirk Futures Fund 200 Eaton Ave, Selkirk MB R1A 0W6 or www.SDCF.ca, a gesture that honours Gordon's lifelong commitment to inclusion and community.

A private family celebration will commemorate Gordon's remarkable journey. His was a life well-lived.

"Life is just better at the lake.”