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Obituaries

Gordon Funnell

September 11, 1949 - July 08, 2025

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Obituary For Gordon Funnell

It is with great love and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gordon Funnell on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, in Kelowna, BC, at the age of 75 years.

Gord was a proud father to Kayla Funnell, Kraig Funnell, and Adam Tatum (Colleen Tatum), and a beloved grandfather to Colton, Hunter, and Harper. He shared his life and adventures with his loving partner, Betty Tatum, and was always accompanied by his loyal dog, Nikki.

Born in Beaverlodge, Alberta, to Annabelle Funnell (née Morrison) and Tom Funnell (both predeceased), Gord grew up playing hockey and getting into just the right amount of trouble. From a young age, he had a sharp wit, a big heart, and an unmatched work ethic. He built a successful career in business, known not only for his smarts, but for his deep generosity—especially toward the underdog. He loved helping others get a leg up and was always there with advice, encouragement, or a helping hand.

Gord was always giving of his time and wisdom. He was open with advice and served as a mentor to many people in his life. This was especially true for his nieces and nephews who often turned to him for his perspective and straight talk.

He was the life of the party and the king of storytelling. Gord loved a good laugh or a better joke. He was always found on the phone chatting, either organizing something for business, reminiscing with a story, or just calling to say hello. His presence filled every room and his laughter was impossible to ignore.

Fishing at Lloyd Lake, cracking jokes by the fire, and enjoying a cold drink in good company were some of Gord’s favorite pastimes.

Gord was blessed to have deep friendships, many of which he had his entire life. Not many can count that as a blessing, and it is a testament to the character he and his friends had and have.

In retirement, he fulfilled a long-held dream of living in Lake Country, BC, overlooking the beautiful Kalamalka Lake—a spot he had camped at as a young man and always hoped to call home. He made that dream come true.

Gord lived fully, loved fiercely, and left us with enough stories to last a lifetime.

A celebration of Gord’s life will be held at Happy Trails Campground (Grande Prairie, AB) on Saturday, July 26th, from 4:00 p.m. ‘til late. Come as you are—casual clothes, good food, drinks, and, as Gord wanted, “giver music.” Camping stalls are available to rent so we can make it an all-nighter—or as long as you can stay. Let’s send him off the way he would have wanted: with laughter, stories, music, and love.

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Condolences

  • July 26, 2025

    Maynard Hotte family

    Betty and family,our thoughts and prayers go out to yous. I will miss my friend,team mate,bussiness partner for ever ,we had so many good times. And the phone calls that kept us in touch of our lives. These memories will always be with us. Maynard + Marlene Hotte family

  • July 21, 2025

    Sarah Jakhura

    Dear Betty, Kayla, Kraig, Adam, and Colleen, I'm so sorry for your loss - my deepest condolences. My fondest childhood memories are from our time as neighbours on Sibley Road and Sifton avenue. I will always remember Gordie taking all of us kids out to Tower Road for bonfires in the gazebo and days spent quadding. Thinking of you all during this time. With love, Sarah

  • July 20, 2025

    Elaine Stokke

    Dear Funnell Family. Our Family knew Gord for many years...Gord was a good friend of my husband Ray and our Family as well. We will always remember him for his great laugh and sense of fun . Have many memories to treasure of Gord and his pranks. (mostly he pulled on me LOL) He certainly will be missed . Our sincere sympathies to all of you. Elaine Stokke and Family .

  • July 20, 2025

    Kathy(Martin) and Bryan Sinkevich

    Our thoughts are with Betty and the kids. Gordie was my first cousin. His dad Tommy was my mom Joyce's big brother. The few times I saw Gordie he was always so kind and so funny. He will be missed.

  • July 19, 2025

    Kathy Wright ( Funnell )

    Betty and family, As I sit here drinking my morning coffee, I have so many thoughts of things to say. Growing up I saw you at all the Funnell Christmas's, Easter's, Thanksgiving's and more. You were always so funny and the expressions on your face were like "I didn't do anything ", such innocence. Ha Ha. Not. Then as we grew up and life took us here and there I saw you less. I remember when you tried to teach me to play your trumpet, I did more farting and giggling than trying to blow. I remember when the ball team from Beaverlodge came to our home in Grimshaw and camped out in our garage. Uncle Tommy was the coach. Gosh what fun we had! Great memories to keep in my heart. You were always such a JOKER ! I will miss you, I will think of you often. You rest now my cousin. Peace will surround you.

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