Obituary of Gordon Leslie Hillgartner

July 14, 1960 - Hamilton, Ontario

August 14, 2023 - Calgary, Alberta

Gordon Leslie Hillgartner of Calgary, AB, formerly from Binbrook, ON, passed away on Monday, August 14, 2023 at the age of 63 years.

Gordon was predeceased by his parents, Ralph and Mary Hillgartner; his brother and sister-in-law, Glen and Elizabeth Hillgartner; and brother-in-law Cliff Renshaw. He also just recently lost his longtime best friend David Lindsay.

Gordon is survived by his siblings in Ontario, Ellen Sheldrick, Stephen Hillgartner, Gail Renshaw (the late Cliff), and Kathy Hillgartner (Mark Ongaro); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Gordon was born in Hamilton, ON, on July 14, 1960. He spent most of his adult life living in Calgary, AB. Gordon was a carpenter by trade and was gifted as a musician and an artist. Although he had many struggles throughout his life, he rediscovered in the last few years his love of music and art. He played the guitar, mandolin, harmonica, and keyboard. Gordon had serenaded his siblings in Ontario over the phone many times and they were always blown away by his talent. The artwork he produced in the last few years of his life really showed his talent, which he had forgotten he had.

Gordon’s favourite poem was “THE FROGS” from his maternal grandfather’s book of poems titled “SONGS of the VALE”.

Many thanks to the Calgary Drop-In Centre for everything that they did for Gordon over the years. Also, very much appreciated, the heartfelt time and care given from the Alpha House “Angels”, Janine and Melanie, and many others who assisted Gord over the years.

Gordon will be interred in the family cemetery in Binbrook, ON at a later date.

In living memory of Gordon Hillgartner, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.