Obituary of Gordon Ralph Melendy

Gordon Melendy passed peacefully at Victoria Hospital, London on September 9, 2026, at the age of 80 years, surrounded with loved ones by his side and the comforting sounds of Newfie music playing in the background.

Loving and Devoted Father of Rodney Melendy and Melissa Melendy (David) Fonte. Cherished Grandfather “Poppy” to Ivy Muehlbacher, the apple of his eye.

Left to mourn:  Sisters Eva (Bernard) Mills, Joan (Herbert) McDonald, Sister-in-law Bride Melendy.  Special nephews, nieces & their families:  Tony (Denise) Melendy, Todd Melendy, Jay (Boram) McDonald.  Michelle Melendy (Earle) Dalley, Joanne (Rob) Flynn, Janice (Robert) Barry, Joette (Gregory) Parsons, Shellie (Serge) Cormier, Wendy McDonald. He was predeceased by his parents:  Irene & Maxwell Melendy, Brothers: Harold Melendy, Clyde (Goldie) Melendy and nephew Barry Melendy.

Over the last few years, he was fortunate to have the friendship, kindness and support of many wonderful friends and neighbours in the Port Stanley community. They were there for him in so many ways, offering companionship, meals, checking in on him, lending a helping hand, and making sure he never felt alone in his home. Our family is deeply grateful for the care, friendship, and kindness they showed him throughout those years. Their support meant so much to him and to all of us.

Gordon was born in St. John’s but raised in Corner Brook, NF. He was a Boy Scout, loved nature & adventure, played hockey, loved fishing with his Dad and brothers & picking berries. At a very young age he would be seen with his Dad on a construction site. He would say… “Sure, I helped my Dad build that Church.” He graduated from Herdman Collegiate, Corner Brook, furthered his education in St. John’s, graduating from College of Trades & Technology. While attending college, Environment Canada recruited him and some of his close classmates to work as hydrologists in Ontario. His Ontario adventure began and for many years he travelled the province testing multiple river and lake sources. Gord had an incredible work ethic and creative force. He designed and built a castle dream home in Ariss, Ontario to raise his family and gave them the most magical childhood home and experience that others could only dream of. In London, Ontario he opened a restaurant called “Club 46”. He based it on his birth year and made sure all the details matched the genre with 40s-50s live bands, a top-notch chef and an experience customers would always remember.  In the 90s, he discovered a love of Port Stanley, Ontario and had a vision of starting his cottage empire. Over the years, he renovated countless properties in the community, adding his special and unique “Gordie” touches to each one, from his love of Gingerbread trim, to the vibrant colours…he shared his eye for beauty and the finest details. He had such dedication to what he built, that he was still booking his cottage experiences in his last final days.

An entrepreneur, an artist, designer, creator, draftsman, carpenter - literally jack-of-ALL-trades. His strength, will and stubbornness carried him through life and through many years of physical pain. Yet he faced it all with remarkable bravery, determination and moments of laughter along the way. His big heart and generosity shone through him and will always be cherished by those that hold him dear.

Anyone who’s had the pleasure of meeting Gord knows how iconic & legendary he truly was. He was a Master of Entertaining. He created paradises wherever he went. He lived a full life without inhibitions and with a remarkable sense of authenticity. He allowed himself to live fully and boldly in a way that many people never give themselves permission to do. He wrote his own rules of life, followed them closely and inspired many to gather with loved ones and celebrate life with all you’ve got. Oh…and his laugh. The climbing sound of a high, jovial heee…heee….hee…hee…hee, rising through the air in quick little bursts, was infectious. That unmistakable sound of pure amusement seemed to dance throughout the room. It was iconic and will forever be imprinted on our hearts.

Cremation has taken place. An” Honorary Gordie Party” will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026 at his Ivylea Cottage in Port Stanley to share stories and celebrate our legend.

Gordon will be laid to rest with his parents at Mount Patricia Cemetery in Corner Brook, NL at a later date, followed by a classic Melendy family gathering with “Pickies & Drinks”.