GORDON GEORGE NEWTON

Gordon Newton passed away on January 27, 2026, at the age of 94. A humble, kind, and generous man, he was known for his patience, understanding, and quiet strength. Highly thoughtful and deeply respected, Gordon was an excellent listener and steady leader who guided others with compassion rather than authority. Above all, he was a devoted family man whose love, integrity, and consistency shaped generations.

Born in Elgin, Manitoba in 1931, Gordon was the eldest child in a close-knit family, growing up with two younger sisters, Lynne and Nora. His early years were marked by frequent moves tied to his father’s work on the railway, including time in Hartney, Roseisle, and Algar. From an early age, Gordon developed a strong work ethic and a deep sense of responsibility, helping care for his sisters while delivering groceries and newspapers by bike. An avid reader even as a boy, he earned the affectionate nickname “Professor” from neighbours—a fitting sign of his lifelong love of learning and teaching.

Gordon believed deeply that education extended far beyond the classroom. After earning a Bachelor of Science from the University of Manitoba in 1953 and a Bachelor of Pedagogy in 1954, he went on to a distinguished career as an educator and administrator in the St. Vital area of Winnipeg. He later returned to earn a master’s degree in education. He served as a teacher, principal, and ultimately Superintendent of the St. Vital School Division until his retirement in 1986. Respected by students, staff, and families alike, Gordon championed hands-on learning, vocational education, and leadership rooted in fairness and respect.

In August 1954, Gordon married Margaret, his beloved wife and partner of 66 years. Together they raised their three children—David (Robin), Barb (John), and Kathy (Larry)—creating a home filled with books, learning, encouragement, and love. Gordon and Margaret shared a deep partnership, supporting one another through life’s challenges and joys. They loved travelling, first with their children and later together in retirement, including many happy years spent as snowbirds in Mesa, Arizona.

Family was always at the center of Gordon’s life. He was a loving father and a devoted grandfather who was always ready to lend a helping hand, offering guidance, encouragement, and practical support whenever it was needed. He spent many cherished summers with his family at the cottage at Brereton Lake, and took great pride in his grandchildren—Trevor, Michelle (Geoff), Candice (Clay), Alex (Gerald), Ashley (Aaron), and Mitchell—and his five great-grandchildren.

Even in retirement, Gordon remained deeply engaged in his community. He served as Founding Director and Vice-Chair of the Awasisak Mēskanôw (formerly Bishop Grandin) Greenway, a project born from conversations about preserving green space for future generations. Gordon worked tirelessly on the Greenway and took great pride in its creation and lasting legacy. Last year, he was honoured with a park bench dedication recognizing the founding directors.

Throughout his life, Gordon remained active, curious, and engaged. A lifelong lover of watercolour painting, he continued teaching by helping lead art classes for fellow seniors at Seine River Retirement Residence. He loved roses, bird watching, and spending time in nature, where he delighted in identifying plants and sharing his knowledge. After Margaret’s passing in 2020, Gordon found companionship, friendship, and renewed joy among his community at Seine River, taking part in activities such as senior games, billiards, flower arranging, and dancing, and enjoying a close and meaningful friendship with Laurine. Gordon found joy in quiet reflection and thoughtful conversation; his warmth made people feel welcome, his patience made them feel heard, and his wisdom stayed with them long after conversations ended.

Gordon was predeceased by his parents, George and Ruth; his wife, Margaret; his sisters-in-law Marjorie, Jean and Elizabeth; his brothers-in-law, Arnold, Robert, George and Bill; and his dear friend Laurine. He is lovingly remembered by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sisters Lynne and Nora, brother-in-law John, and many nieces and nephews. His life was one of service, learning, generosity, and love, and his legacy lives on in the many lives he touched.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Emergency Department, H7 and B2 units at Health Sciences Centre, and to all the physicians, nurses, and staff whose compassion and care meant so much.

A service to celebrate Gordon’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 14, at the United Church in Meadowood, 1111 Dakota Street, Winnipeg. For those unable to attend, the service can be viewed online on this page, or through the link posted  below. 

https://www.youtube.com/live/p-NsGpdw4u0

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

1833 Portage Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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