George Forbes Gordon

It is with heavy hearts we bid a final farewell to Mr. George Forbes Gordon, 84, of Fountain Valley, California, who departed our world on May 15, 2022. He is fondly remembered for his flair for fun and excitement, witty sarcasm, and incredible passion for his work. No one will forget his vim and vigor.

George Gordon was born on March 28, 1938, in Toronto, Ontario. He was the second of four children born to proud parents, Nellie and Albert Gordon. An animal-lover and fascinated by horse racing from a young age, it was no surprise when a fourteen-year-old George requested his mother’s permission to leave school and pursue a career at the local racetrack instead.

His natural-born talent was immediately obvious, claiming many impressive victories and swiftly rising in the ranks as a renowned champion Thoroughbred Jockey. As an esteemed member of the Ontario Jockey Club, George spent many years winning races and breaking records across North America. Later in life, he would continue in the industry as an Official Racing Judge.

George was blessed with four incredible children, Thomas, George Jr., Krystal, and Timothy. Twenty years ago, he relocated to California, where he and his wife, Audrey, enjoyed the easygoing west coast lifestyle. Most of his days were spent outdoors golfing, fishing, singing, or whistling in the garden. George loved spending time with friends and enjoyed making others laugh with his colourful sense of humour.

In the book “Live the Life You Love” (pg 256) George’s most important life lessons are quoted:

✔ Try to learn something new every day.

✔ A little knowledge is not too heavy to carry around.

✔ Enjoy your work.

✔ Be nice to people.

✔ Find the right life partner.

✔ Let go of stress.

✔ Don’t argue with others, walk away.

✔ Go fishing and golfing more.

✔ When you bet at the horse races, have fun.

George was preceded in death by his mother and father, Nellie and Albert Gordon; sisters, Doreen Rogers and Beverly Pim (Doug); and his first wife, Marion Joyce, mother of Thomas and George Jr. He is survived by his adoring wife, Audrey Gordon, whom he affectionately called “my girl”; one beautiful daughter, Krystal Ebertowski (Richard); three amazing sons, Timothy Gordon, George Gordon Jr. (Sylvie), and Tom Gordon (Doris); loving brother, Jim Gordon; former wife, Dee, mother of Timothy and Krystal; four delightful grandchildren; six wonderful great-grandchildren; and a host of close friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held in George’s honor later this year, with the date, time, and location yet to be announced. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations made to the Woodbine Cares Foundation in Canada or the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund in the US. They also extend their sincerest gratitude to the staff at Carmel Village, who provided unparalleled care for George in his final four years.