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GORDON EDWARDS
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GORDON EDWARDS

GORDON RICHARD EDWARDS

GORDON EDWARDS Obituary

EDWARDS, GORDON RICHARD June 17, 1934 – January 8, 2019 Gord will be dearly missed by his family and friends. He is survived by Heather, his wife of 26 years, his children Kevin (Kim), Karyn (Jamie), Christopher (Kirsti), step-sons Brock (Tobie), Aaron (Ariadne) and grandchildren Ryan, Blake, Timothy, Christopher, Megan, Jack and Clea. He will be dearly missed by his golden retriever, Bauer. His career started at General Electric before becoming a pioneer in the early days of the Canadian music industry: working for RCA and Capitol records, then onto senior executive positions as Vice President of Warner Bros. (WEA Music) and as President of Handleman and GRT Records. Gord's leadership was once again crucial in helping to build another entertainment industry as Managing Director of Warner Home Video business in North America. Gord spearheaded and set standards for the industry on many levels. He was a true unselfish mentor to many with a wonderful sense of humor. His contemporaries at Warner Bros. head office in L.A. said he wasn't just one of the best, he was the best. He was a person you wanted to work for and with. He encouraged everyone and would offer guidance where needed and encouragement to move forward in their careers while enjoying their personal life. It was a daily routine to sit with Heather and review the current state of the world as they shared both business and political ideas. In retirement they travelled extensively enjoying the cultural differences around the world from Africa to Vietnam and most parts of every continent. Gord enjoyed golf games with industry friends and loved the Blue Jays opening day at the Dome. Sports were a great passion of his and he often reflected on baseball games he attended with his dad. It was a real treat for him to attend his grandsons' hockey and football games. Gord was a proud parent and grandad. Vascular dementia eventually took over and Gord fought a long tough battle. His smile and spirit will live in our hearts forever. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. Donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Canada (www.alzheimer.ca) and Golden Rescue (www.goldenrescue.ca).

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Published by Toronto Star on Jan. 19, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for GORDON EDWARDS

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7 Entries

Peggy Stratton

January 16, 2021

A better man would be hard to find. Gord was my neighbour for many years when we lived in Agincourt. He was a kind, loving person. A gentleman to be sure. I'm happy to read his children were close to him and he married again, which would have brought him much happiness.

Jennifer Mann

January 29, 2019

I was so sad to hear of Gord's passing. My happiest career memories are my time working at Warner Canada under his leadership. He set such an example for all of us with his kindness and warmth. My thoughts are with you Heather & family.

Andy Abbate

January 24, 2019

My sincere condolences to Gord's family and friends. Gord hired me in 1969 as a salesman at Warners (W7) Toronto branch. By far he was the best sales manager I've ever worked for. He was a true mentor to me not only while he was at Warner but also later on when he was my customer at Handleman. Thanks Chief. Rest in peace.

January 23, 2019

Gord hired me at Warners and was a great mentor. I have many fine memories of out times together. He was a fine man. My condolences to the family.

John Donabie

January 23, 2019

My deepest condolences to Gord's family. He was always kind and supportive to me; over the years. RIP Gord.

January 21, 2019

Dearest Heather, Our deepest sympathy for your great loss.
In friendship and love
Trudy and Bill McCartney

Garry & Terri Newman

January 20, 2019

Dear Heather and Family,

Terri and I are sad to hear of Gord's passing. Gord was one of my father' s best friends. There friendship started during the early days of the Canadian music business. Gord as a matter of fact played a part in my music industry career. He called me one day and told me of an opening at London Records that would be perfect for me. I spent 6 great years there. Once again, he called to say, call the branch manager at CBS Records, there looking for a salesman. These two calls set my career in motion and I will never forget his assistance. May he Rest In Peace.

Our thoughts are with you and your family, during this difficult time.

Garry and Terri Newman

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