Passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 5, 2024 with his family by his side at ARCH hospice in Sault Ste. Marie, ON after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born March 1st, 1939, to the late James and Edna (née James) MacKenzie in New Liskeard, ON. Gordon was predeceased by Jane MacKenzie (née McKague), his loving wife of 40 years and mother of his three children. His oldest son, Barry MacKenzie (Cathie), daughter Sandra MacKenzie-Oliver (Ken) and son Michael MacKenzie. Grandfather to Rianne MacKenzie (Connor) and Nicholas MacKenzie. Beloved younger brother to the late Vera MacKenzie, brother Donald MacKenzie and sister-in-law Pam MacKenzie. He also leaves behind a caring and dedicated partner, Lotte Steube, who brought so much joy, love and happiness to him in his later years. Gordon’s loss will also be felt by his many friends he has made in the artistic community around the world.
Gord spent his early years in New Liskeard, ON where he began his teaching career. After moving to various Northern Ontario communities for work, he made his final move to Sault Ste. Marie, ON in 1966 with his wife Jane by his side. Gord had a love for the outdoors and enjoyed all of the natural beauty Sault Ste. Marie had to offer. He spent many years camping, fishing and exploring the outdoors with his family by his side. It was at this time that he began his career with the Board of Education as The Art Consultant. He remained in this position for the remainder of his career ultimately retiring in 1994.
After retirement from the school board he was able to pursue his passion for art as a full time artist, author and instructor. Gord’s love for the outdoors is evident as his watercolours transported viewers to serene landscapes, majestic mountains, and peaceful waterscapes, inviting us to slow down, appreciate, and connect with the world around us. Gord’s legacy extends far beyond his own creations. As a dedicated instructor and mentor, he nurtured countless students, sharing his expertise and passion for watercolour with generosity and kindness. Gord's workshops, taught around the world, fostered a community of artists united by a love of art and a desire to learn.
Friends and family are invited to gather at Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington Street East 705-759-2522) on Saturday, May 11, 2024 from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm. Memorial service to follow at 3 pm. Rev. Helen Smith officiating. A larger celebration of life will be announced at a later date for this summer.
Our family would like to extend a special thank you to all of the staff at ARCH hospice. They all demonstrated a level of expertise, empathy, and understanding that went above and beyond our expectations. Your support enabled us to cherish every moment with our dad. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to ARCH hospice in Gord’s honour. Please visit www.arthurfuneralhome.com to leave a memory or messages of condolence for the MacKenzie family.