Van Bavel, Gordon Charles
Van Bavel,Gordon Charles
1941 – 2021
Gordon Charles Van Bavel (1941 – 2021) after a courages battle with cancer was called home to our Lord on November 11, 2021 at the age of 80.
He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years Elizabeth; children Wes (Theresa), Wayne (Kelly), and Wendy (Mike Clements), and his brother Hugh (Shirley); six grandchildren, Daniel, Marisa, Ryan, Nicolas, Wayne jr.(Kim), Kyley. Was predeceased by his parents John and Kathleen Van Bavel and brother Herman.
Gordon was born and raised on a farm in the Strathmore, Alberta area where he learned the trade of farming that became a passion of his throughout his life.
Staying close to the farming community, Gordon started work with Retail Credit in Calgary in 1961.
A few years later in 1964 he married Elizabeth Hendricks in Rockyford, Alberta.
A transfer in 1965 with Retail Credit to Red Deer allowed him to work closer with the agricultural industry being able to travel and visit communities and farms throughout Alberta. Red Deer would become home where he would raise his family.
Not satisfied with the sidelines of the farming industry, in the early 70’s he transitioned closer to the action as a sales person with Versaline Farm Centre in Red Deer.
With a passion to get back into the farming fields, Gordon co-founded “Triple Oak Farming Equipment” in the mid 70’s that included farming land. Spring, summer, and fall, it was not hard to find him, Gordon could be found on a combine or swather.
Always looking for a new venture; Gordon bought a framing and hobby store known as McCool’s Crafts and Hobbies which fell in line with his talent for woodworking.
After many years in the retail industry, Gordon would start a new chapter as Sales Manager for Southside Chrysler in Red Deer.
Finally, in 1997 Gordon and Elizabeth would semi-retire to Sunny California enjoying their time together.
To all who knew him, Gordon was a unique and caring individual. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.
He will always be remember by friends and family for his generosity and friendly smile.