Gordon Burles
October 14, 1949 - October 13, 2023
James Gordon Burles of Banff passed away on Friday, October 13, one day before his 74th birthday. Gordon was predeceased by his father, James Percy Burles and his mother, Kathleen Hilda (Ward) Burles. He is survived by his brother, Douglas (Faye), his nephew, Lee (Michelle), great-niece, Kaylin Anna, great-nephew, Rylan Percy, and his niece, Meridith (Trent).
Gordon was born in Banff and lived here practically all of his life. He loved Banff, travelling extensively on horseback with his father and brother. He hiked in most parts of the Park, with friends and the Skyline Hikers for many years. He scrambled and climbed many mountains.
Gordon received a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from the University of Calgary, and later a Diploma in Surveying from SAIT. He was a surveyor for many years, working on such projects as reconstruction of the Bow Valley Parkway and construction of an avalanche shed in Rogers Pass. While surveying, he liked to look for old survey lines, cabins, and mines. He discovered the old Tote Road of the 1880s and a pack trail at the base of Mount Rundle.
Gordon worked as a Park Naturalist in Banff and Revelstoke, and in later years worked at the Info Centre in Banff. His knowledge of Banff and its geology, paleontology, and history was extensive. He was a much sought-after teammate for the Banff Spelling Bee.
Gordon’s interest in books was deep and varied; he read philosophy, history, science, and classic literature, including complete collections of many authors. He also had a witty sense of humour that he shared in frequent conversations with family, friends, and acquaintances around town.
Gordon was above all a poet. He began to write poetry in grade five, and over his life published many collections of his poems. In 2022, he was named the Honorary Poet Laureate of Banff.
Gordon will be sorely missed by his family and his many friends.
“Sleepe after toyle, port after stormie seas,
Ease after warre, death after life, does gently please.”
Edmond Spenser, 1590
Please join us for a Commemoration of Life at the Royal Canadian Legion in Banff on Sunday, October 22 at 1:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Gordon’s name to the Kidney Foundation of Canada or a charity of your choice.
