It is with great sadness that the family of Gordon Steidl announce his sudden passing in Vancouver on September 27, 2016 at the age of 76 years. He was held in his final days by loving family who gathered from near and far and by the thoughts and prayers of his friends. A prairie kid, Gordon was born in Regina in 1940 and grew up in Wilcox, Saskatchewan before leaving to attend UBC where he gained his teaching qualifications. Gordon’s career took him to Castlegar then north to principalships in Fraser Lake and Stewart before coming to settle in the Comox Valley in 1976 where he was principal of Robb Road Junior and later at Lake Trail Junior. He retired in 1996. Gordon took great pride in the achievements of his students and always enjoyed meeting them long after in the community. His commitment and dedication to youth continued into retirement where he was active in helping to establish the Community Justice Centre in Courtenay. Gordon was a boisterous, mischievous soul, known for his larger-than-life personality, for story-telling and for his endless generosity. In retirement he and his wife Gillian shared many happy travel adventures especially in the Cook Islands and New Zealand. His grandchildren brought him great joy, giving him the opportunity to continue being a kid himself. He enjoyed his regular monthly card games, golfing and fishing with his friends. Gordon is survived by his dearly loved wife Gillian and children Sandy, Kathy, Craig {Kristina} and Tracy, his brothers Ken {Muriel} and Don {Marge} and the best grandkids a grandpa could ask for. He is deeply missed, and his warm-hearted laughter echoes in our hearts. A Celebration of Gordon’s life will be held at Crown Isle Golf Resort, Ryan Road Courtenay on November 12 at @ 2pm. Memorial donations in memory of Gordon can be made to Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation. Memorial donations in memory of Gordon can be made to Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation.