Annette Marie Gordon (Urquhart)

January 30, 1937 - March 24, 2024

In Loving Memory ~

With deep sadness her family shares the peaceful passing of Annette Marie Gordon, on Sunday March 24th, 2024 at the Comox Valley Seniors Village.

Marie was a proud descendant of the Valley's pioneering Urquhart Family.

Born January 30th, 1937, the youngest child of William and Lillian Urquhart, Marie was predeceased by her mother and father, husband Donald, and her siblings: Maudy, Evelyn, Bev, and Kassy.

She is survived by her daughters Laura Silva and Lillian Riegling, her grandchildren Monica and Aidan Riegling as well as her brother, Alex Urquhart, and brother-in-law Robert Gordon and an extended family.

With the exception of a period for treatment and rehabilitation in Victoria and Vancouver following contracting polio in 1953, Marie lived her entire life in the Comox Valley. Her amazing core of inner strength and courage were very evident in the way in which she dealt with the challenges of recovery and lifestyle adaptation. Marie never let her polio define her.

Marie attended school in S.D. 71 from Grade 1-12 graduating in 1957 and was both an active and enthusiastic participant and recognized leader. Prior to her marriage to Donald in 1960, Marie was employed in the civilian work force at CFB Comox.

In 1966 Donald & Marie were blessed with twin daughters. Marie's adult life was focused on her family, community, and service. She had superb organizational and management skills used effectively when serving on various Boards including The Comox Valley Community Foundation, United Way, and The Glacier View Lodge.

Donald and Marie were also part of the local business community as long-term owners of Guys & Dolls Children's Wear. As well, Marie supported Donald in his Rotary and community development roles.

They traveled to many wonderful destinations. Cruising was always the highlight of their travels with family and friends.

Marie served in many capacities for the local constituency as an advocate for people with accessibility challenges. She was a determined and focused worker and managed political offices for several years.

She was an extremely valued volunteer whose community contributions were recognized in her selection as Courtenay's Citizen of the Year in 1994.

Marie was a charter member of the Beta Sigma Phi local Chapter and remained a dedicated, active member for many years. Through the sorority she became involved as a volunteer for CARS, Red Cross Blood Donor clinics and in the District Annual Winter Carnival.

The sorority also became the source of many lasting friendships and connections that Marie enjoyed fully. Marie cherished and nurtured her friendships, many of which spanned several decades.

The family extends its appreciation and gratitude for the compassionate care provided to Marie by her personal physician Dr Winter and by the staff of the Comox Valley Seniors Village Long Term Care Unit. Marie considered this her home, a place where she could welcome friends and family and enjoy life.

A Celebration of Life for Marie will be held on: Saturday, June 22, 2024, from 2:00pm to 4:00pm

Native Son's Hall in Courtenay - Grand Hall

We ask that in lieu of flowers donations in her memory be made to the Comox Valley Community Foundation.