Douglas Elliot Gordon

Douglas Elliot Gordon passed away peacefully on April 22, 2025 at the age of 71 years after a courageous battle with early onset dementia.

He is survived by his wife Cathy, children Stephen, Caitlin (Tyler) and Candace and will forever be remembered by his brother Ken along with his children Cody, Chase and Montana. Known by family, friends and colleagues as Dougie, Coach Dougie or Mr. G, Dougie’s spirit and love of life will be his legacy for many years.

Dougie developed his passion for sports at a very early age playing soccer, baseball and hockey with an energy that never wavered. He worked for Surrey School District as a Physical Education Teacher and later as a Vice Principal until his retirement in 2011. A gifted coach and mentor, Dougie inspired many students to pursue their academic and athletic dreams.

Dougie’s passion for the game of soccer is what really drove his lifelong calling. While studying at the University of BC, Dougie played for the UBC Thunderbirds until his graduation in 1975. Later Dougie continued to play men’s league with Glenavon Football Club and coached the Langara College Women’s Soccer Team to four BCCA provincial championships and a CCAA National Championship. Throughout these years, Dougie was unwavering in his pursuit of excellence and sportsmanship, while bringing out the best in every athlete.

For over 35 years, Dougie also coached youth soccer players at UBC Soccer School and later became Head Coach of the Richmond Youth Soccer Association and South Burnaby Metro Soccer Association. He was passionate about the long term development of youth soccer by creating an environment of teamwork, collaboration and fun. Dougie will forever be remembered by many players and coaches for his game of “Simon Says” at the end of each session – a tradition that became so popular even the parents would leave their cars in the rain just to see if they could beat “the master”.

Along with his deep involvement in sport, Dougie’s first passion was his family. After meeting Cathy at Jericho Tennis Club, she and Dougie went on to raise three children. Dougie was so proud of his children and an ardent supporter of every activity they took on. He could be seen on the sidelines of soccer fields, ice hockey rinks, field hockey pitches and even being the only father in parent/child ballet classes. He never hesitated to point out who his children were or boast about how proud he was.

Throughout all the years of playing, coaching and raising a family, Dougie enjoyed a growing network of friendships that remained committed to each other. The annual “Dougie Golf Tournament” is one example that has gone above and beyond, supporting Dougie during his final years of playing golf and later to ensure Dougie had everything he needed. The family also wishes to thank Bob and Susan for their never-ending support and for “being there” during for the good times as well as the tough transitions.

Sincere gratitude goes to the dedicated medical staff and caregivers at Parkview Tertiary Care, Louis Brier Home and Hospital and Youville Residence for the support, kindness and care they provided Dougie during his stay in long term care. The focus on Dougie’s quality of life will never be forgotten.

Memorial donations can be made in Dougie’s name to the Alzheimer’s Society of BC.