One of the Valley’s greatest characters has gone on to the larger stage. Gordon Askey passed away in the early hours of January 7 at our wonderful little Invermere hospital. He is survived by Lynn, his wife and partner of 43 years, sister Karen (Ron) Mellett, sons Chris and Jean-Paul (Stephanie), grandchildren Skyla and Royce, niece Mimi Northcott, nephews Paul (Cori) and Colin Askey and Michael Northcott.

Gordon was first and foremost an entertainer. He had a great love for organizing events and gathering a full cast of talented participants. Gordon’s largest and most rewarding achievement was his CD release in January 2007. In his lifetime Gordon was a hockey player and coach, musician and composer, tradesman, craftsman and artisan, fly fisher, salesman and traveler. He fostered and encouraged many beginning musicians. Many individuals will remember his Bluegrass 101 held wherever there was a willing student or his Fly Fishing 101, often conducted on the field below his house.

He will be seriously missed by family and hundreds of friends across North America who appreciated his many talents and off-the-wall sense of humour. Most would agree with this observation made by his sister Karen many years ago: “Everyone needs a little Gordon Askey – but only a little, mind you.”