Former standardbred owner Gordon Francis Swinamer, 82, of Garlands Crossing, N.S. passed away peacefully on July 14 in the Hants Community Hospital, surrounded by his daughters.
Born on September 20, 1931, in Three Mile Plains, he was the eldest child of the late Gordon "Dick" and Elizabeth (McNeil) Swinamer.
Gordon worked at Fundy Gypsum Co. before starting his first canteen in Three Mile Plains. He later built Downeast Motel and Restaurant (Gordon's Grill) in Garlands Crossing. Gordon sold the business in 1978, and built The Villager, now known as the Crossroads Restaurant, in the mid 80’s, then later started peddling produce in the city. Gordon was a participant and supporter of Maritime harness racing. In retirement, he enjoyed gardening, card games, watching the Blue Jays and his special Jack Russell companion, Emma Jean.
Gordon is survived by his daughters Cindy (Paul) DeMont of Three Mile Plains, Alice (Ken) Cameron of Liverpool and Ellen McNeil of Garlands Crossing; grandchildren Kristopher (Sarah) and Gregory McNeil, Steven (Nicole) and Kayla DeMont and Evan Cameron;great grandson Kellan; sisters Pat Redden of Three Mile Plains, Carol Ann (Al) Hartlen of Kentville and Susie Sweeney of Yarmouth. Predeceased by his daughter Cassandra Jean Swinamer, granddaughter Ali Cameron and brother Vernon K. Swinamer.
The family wish to thank Bev Lyttle, VON and staff of Unit 200 of Hants Community Hospital, for the special care.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Palliative Care, Hants Community Hospital.
A celebration of life will be held at the Three Mile Plains Community Hall on Thursday, July 17 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Feel free to bring a deck of cards. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.serenitylindsayfuneralhome.ca. Arrangements have been entrusted to Serenity Lindsay Annapolis Valley Funeral Home, Wolfville Chapel (568 Main St) 542-4656
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Gordon Swinamer.