March 10, 1938 – October 2, 2024
Gordon Allen Cunningham was born on March 10, 1938 to Joe and Emily Cunningham in Whitefish Lake, AB.
Before moving to High Prairie in 1953, Gordon spent the first 15 years of his life living in Whitefish Lake and attending the residential day school. Much of his childhood was spent with his sisters (Evelyn Blair, Dora St. Cyr, Ruby Guttinger, Ruth Corbett, Muriel Cunningham) and his one brother, Ray Cunningham.
After the passing of his father in 1953, his mom packed up all of their belongings and moved the family to High Prairie. This is where Gordon met the love of his life, Violet Freeman, whom he married in 1958. Together they had seven children: Brenda, Joe, Gordon Jr., Vincent, Anita, Ian and Jonathan.
Gordon worked for Flint Engineering which took him all over Alberta. Before retiring, Gordon also worked as a court worker for Native Counselling Services of Alberta. He also volunteered his time with other organizations which included the High Prairie Boxing Club, Native Golf Association, and the High Prairie Native Friendship Centre.
Gordon had a passion for golf that brought him joy and relaxation. He would often spend much of his time on the golf course, perfecting his swing, and enjoying the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts, which earned him the nickname “Big Chief” at the High Prairie Golf Club where he was a lifelong member. His love for the game was infectious, and he instilled in many a love for sportsmanship, perseverance, and the beauty of the outdoors.
Gordon had many grandchildren who he was extremely proud of. In fact, he was blessed with his very first grandchild, Melvin Goulet Jr., on his 39th birthday.
Family was important to Gordon. He often enjoyed times spoiling his grandchildren and his nieces and nephews, who called him Chi-Chi Gordon. Chi-Chi made the best homemade pancakes and apparently it was a secret recipe because he refused to share but after years upon years of begging, he finally shared with a few of us.
In 2005, Gordon moved into the Pleasantview Lodge in High Prairie. At this point, he was still able to drive and often times we could find him out at the golf course, or driving to watch his great nephews play baseball or play hockey. It was not unusual to see him going for a drive out to a family member’s house, where he would park and honk his horn so that they would meet him at his car, for a brief visit.
While living at J.B. Wood Continuing Care, Chi-Chi enjoyed playing cribbage and bingo, doing puzzles and word searches, and of course, watching golf or hockey on TV.
As we reflect on the memories we shared with Gordon, we are reminded of his kindness, his sense of humour, and his unwavering love for his family. He was a man of integrity, honour, and compassion, whose guidance and wisdom will continue to inspire us in the days ahead.
While we grieve the loss of our dear father and grandfather, we take comfort in knowing that his spirit lives on in each of us and in the legacy of love and strength that he leaves behind. May we honour his memory by living our lives with the same dedication, passion, and love he exemplified.
Gordon was predeceased by: his parents, all his siblings, and his daughter, Brenda.
He leaves behind his children: Joe (Gisela), Gordon Jr. (Natalie), Vincent, Anita (Sheldon), Ian, and Jonathan, along with 12 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, his sister Doris, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Rest in peace, Gordon. You will forever hold a special place in our hearts.