Catherine "Cathy" Gordon

Catherine "Cathy" Gordon (née Sutherland) passed away on May 18, 2026, at the age of 67, surrounded by her family after a courageous battle with cancer.

She is survived by her children Stephen, Caitlin (Tyler), and Candace; her parents Warren and Sheila; her sister Terri; and her brother Stephen. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Douglas "Dougie" Gordon.

Cathy was born in Vancouver and grew up in Montreal. Her adventurous spirit and love of athletics emerged early, as she filled her days with skiing, synchronized swimming, and running.

In 1980, Cathy completed her degree in physiotherapy from the University of British Columbia where she began her career at Vancouver General Hospital. Her passion for sport soon led her to become the physiotherapist for the Canadian women’s national field hockey team, supporting athletes through the Canadian, Pan American, Commonwealth and 1988 Olympic Games.

In 2001, Cathy joined Allan McGavin Sport Medicine Centre where she became a deeply valued member of the team for 25 years. In the latter part of her career, she dedicated herself to working with Ballet BC and Vancouver's dance community.

As a physiotherapist, Cathy’s impact extended far beyond injury rehabilitation; she helped countless patients feel seen, supported, and cared for, leaving a lasting mark on a community she loved deeply. The relationships Cathy built with her patients and the lives she touched will remain an enduring part of her legacy.

When she was not working, Cathy filled her days with the people and pursuits she loved. Whether she was perfecting her tennis game, golfing, running, or quietly outswimming whoever happened to be in the next pool lane, Cathy embraced every opportunity for connection and adventure. Her creative spirit was just as vibrant. She found joy in watercolours, hand-painting nutcrackers, and foraging for greenery in places that perhaps weren't entirely meant for picking. No outing was complete without a good cup of black coffee.

Cathy’s love of tennis brought many lasting friendships and memories throughout her life. A longtime member of Jericho Tennis Club, Cathy joined in 1986, where she met the love of her life, Dougie Gordon. Together, they built a life centered around family, raising three children and embracing every adventure along the way. Cathy and Dougie never missed a game, recital, graduation, or milestone, creating a home filled with encouragement and unconditional support.

Cathy was a pillar of strength for her family providing a constant source of wisdom and support. Her thoughtful perspective and sound judgment made her the person those closest to her turned to in times of need. Whether offering guidance, helping solve a problem, or simply listening, Cathy had a remarkable ability to make people feel cared for and understood.

The family wishes to extend sincere gratitude to the medical professionals, friends, and family members who supported Cathy through cancer. It is the hope of Cathy and Dougie's loved ones that they are together once again enjoying endless tennis doubles, bike rides, and tearing up the dance floor. Cathy will be remembered with love and gratitude by all who knew her.