Obituary

Passed away peacefully after a courageous battle, at St. Marys Memorial Hospital on November 19, 2025, in his 90th year. Beloved husband of Carol Anne Reed for 66 years. Cherished father of Carolyn McAsh, Jeffrey Bridge and Brent Bridge. Proud and loving grandfather of Steven Bridge and Laura McAsh. Dear brother of Thelma Trask (Morley) and brother-in-law of Lorence Reed (Janis), Jane Reed (Bruno Szafran), and Nancy Reed. Uncle Gordon to many nieces and nephews. Also missed by friends and extended family members. Predeceased by infant son Gary Bridge, parents Victor and Lydia (Foster) Bridge, sister Shirley Bridge, nephews David and Gordon Trask, parents-in-law H. Arthur and R. Marie (Chambers) Reed, and brother-in-law Gregory Reed. On August 23, 1936 Gordon was born north of Molesworth in Wallace Township, Perth County and was raised in a farming community.  He was a quiet, mild-mannered individual with a love for animals and nature. Gord and Carol were married in 1959, and while living in Palmerston, Gord worked at Campbell’s Soup in Listowel and was a volunteer firefighter with the Palmerston Fire Department. In 1969 Gord was transferred to the St. Marys Campbell’s Soup plant as production and shipping/receiving manager, retiring in 1996. He was active in the St. Marys Minor Hockey Association and the St. Marys Presbyterian Church during his middle years. Gord enjoyed 30 years of retirement, living a simple life in his country home. His grandchildren were his pride and joy, as was his red 2003 Dodge truck. Gord was a Toronto Blue Jays fan and an avid supporter of the Toronto Maple Leafs. For 45 years, Gord’s labour of love was maintaining “The Path”, parallel to the Thames River across from his home, for walkers to enjoy. We are grateful for the life of Gord … our husband, father, and grandfather. He will always hold a special place in our hearts, and we will treasure our memories and the time we have shared with him. In his memory, perhaps you might stroll along “The Path” or cheer loudly with fingers crossed, during a Toronto Maple Leafs game, while enjoying a piece of lemon meringue pie – his favourite! Thank you to our family and friends for their support along Gord’s journey and the medical staff who cared for him during his last days. In keeping with Gord’s wishes, there will be no funeral service or visitation. A private family graveside service will be held with interment in St. Marys Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation in Gord’s memory are asked to consider the St. Marys Presbyterian Church, St. Marys Health Foundation or the Stratford Perth Humane Society. Online tributes at www.hodgesfuneralhome.ca.