Obituary of Gordon Stewart Lewis

Lewis, Gordon Stewart – 66, Granville Ferry, Nova Scotia, passed away surrounded by family on Tuesday, March 1, 2016, in Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia. Gordon was born on July 23, 1949 in Annapolis Royal and was the only child of Rev. Stewart Lewis and Ruby Lewis (Smith). Gordon lived throughout Nova Scotia and New Brunswick as his parents were pastors of numerous churches affiliated with the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada. While living in Windsor, Gordon met the love of his life Anne Beckman. He continued his education at Teachers College followed by a year of teaching at Windsor Regional High School. In 1971, he graduated from Acadia University with a B.A. and B.Ed, and within a week, married Anne and began his duties (at the age of 22) as Principal of Beachside Elementary in Newfoundland. During his four years in Newfoundland, Gordon welcomed his daughter Jennifer (Dale Park), Corner Brook, NL. In 1975, Gordon returned to Nova Scotia and became principal of Granville Ferry Consolidated Elementary School, where he taught Special Education for three years. Two years later, he welcomed his youngest daughter April (Clint Surry), Saanichton, BC. Gordon continued as principal in Granville Ferry until 1985 when he became principal of Clementsvale Consolidated School. A year later he left the world of educational administration and transferred to Annapolis West Education Centre where he participated in a new innovative high school math program. This program was designed to address the needs of students who had fallen behind in their education. As Gordon would say, “You find out what was broken or missing in previous learning and fix it!" He remained at AWEC until he retired in 2000. During his time at AWEC, he also taught: English, Economics, Physical Science and Entrepreneurship. In 1997, Gordon received the Entrepreneurship Teacher of the Year Award for Atlantic Canada. His philosophy of education: “Subject matter was secondary to teaching students how to learn.” As well as “instructing”, Gordon’s other passions were his family, summer savory farming, golf, and involvement in various local churches where he served as a pianist and accompanist for over 35 years. Gordon was also an active Member and Deacon at Parkers Cove Baptist Church. Gordon’s love of music began in his youth through playing trombone, and trumpet. He continued to master other instruments including piano and organ, guitar, and violin. Gordon loved his four grandchildren, Lucas Park, Jessica Park, Jacob Surry and Katelyn Surry, and he would often entertain them with his special “Grandpa stories” which he defined as “long rambling stories with no particular end.” Gordon was predeceased by his parents. Gordon is survived by his wife of 45 years, daughters, grandchildren, many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends, as well as former “students". Gordon’s philosophy of life was “First of all pray, then get ‘er done!" Visitation will occur at Parkers Cove Baptist Church, Friday, March 4th from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. A celebration of Gordon’s life will occur at Parkers Cove Baptist church on Sunday, March 6th at 2:00 pm. Due to severe allergies the family request that all who attend the visitation and celebration of the life to not to use any scented products. In lieu of flowers please make donations in memory of Gordon to Gideon’s International of Canada. On line condolences may be made at www.kaulbachfamilyfuneralhome.com