Gordon Findlater [1948-2006]

Gordon was a life-long learner and after attending Albert and Nutana schools went on to work as a lab technician at RUH where he obtained his E C G certification. During this time Gordon studied commercial art and after a brief career in commercial art, he purchased James Art Studio in 1973 with partner Ray Statham. Ray returned to commercial art and Gordon continued on his own until forming a partnership with Glenn Craig in 1990. Their partnership lasted until Gordon's retirement in 2003. Throughout his lifetime, Gordon enjoyed art in its many forms. He enjoyed drawing using various mediums and had an excellent eye for colour and critiquing art. Another passion of Gordon's was music.

He enjoyed listening to and playing a variety of instruments, but his greatest love was the playing and teaching of bagpipes. Gordon was a chartered member of the Saskatoon Boys Pipe Band and under his leadership as Pipe Major the band had the honour of performing at Expo'67. He then joined the North Saskatchewan Regiment Pipes and Drums and rose in ranks to the position of Sargeant. Gordon was also a member of the Strathfleet Pipes and Drums and was a member of the Saskatoon Police Pipes and Drums at the time of his passing. He was instrumental in bringing the Police Band to a higher standard of playing. For many years, Gordon was band director of the 96th Highlanders Pipes and Drums.

He worked with many individual students and was always willing to share his musical expertise. He received a plaque from the Scottish Societies recognizing his many years of dedication and leadership in Piping. Gordon was also a member of the first Saskatchewan Pipe Band Association Music Board.

Gordon totally involved himself in his many interests and talents. Besides being an accomplished musician, he was involved in Toastmasters, being a member of Seven Seas and then became the chartered president of the Meewasin Valley Club. He acted with the Ageless Players, had been a Mason, was a member of Ducks Unlimited working on the Mens' Dinner Committee and was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #63. Gordon enjoyed spending time at Turtle Lake and took pleasure in renovating his cabin. He was an avid reader and was always pursuing new knowledge. Always the gentleman, Gordon was known for his quiet wit, his compassion for animals, his strength, and kindness and helping nature.