Obituary of Oswyn Gatehouse

My Dad, Hubert Oswyn Gatehouse, known to his friends and family as Oz, left us on Christmas Day to return home to his loving family in heaven.

The youngest of seven, he was born in the family home on Change Islands,  Newfoundland. At the age of five he and most of the immediate family relocated to Brampton. 

Predeceased by his parents Stanley Gatehouse & Sarah Amelia (Collins) Gatehouse,  his siblings Elizabeth,  Nelson, Margaret, Harold and June.  Survived by his loving sister Trix. The love in their family was remarkable. The ones left behind will carry that love for a lifetime.

My Dad told me stories that he was one of the youngest employees of Hewetson Shoe Factory in Brampton making pennies per hour.  He was ambitious and driven to climb the company ladder to help support the family and buy things a young boy desires.  He excelled in school and prided himself on being one of two young men hired directly from his graduating class to embark on an exciting career at Bell Northern Research. My Dad's career choices always landed him close to his big brother Nelson. The best years they shared together. 

His family and friends list is extensive of all he loved and those who loved him. There was a sacred spot in his heart for every person that was a part of his story. Relatives who passed before,   in laws as cherished as his own siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins, loves of his life,  friends who were brothers,  his favourite pup Zoey,  myself (Katie) his only child and my Mother June for whom he always held immense gratitude and admiration. 

My Dad was as unique as the name he was given.  He was a loving Father, musician,  poet, singer, songwriter, intellectual,  sailor, philosopher, Reiki healer,  comedian and my greatest teacher. He had an insatiable love for music - both playing and listening.  He would play alone or sitting around a crowded kitchen table. He loved being on stage almost as much as he loved being on the water with his brothers. He had a lifetime of memories he held close.

Months before he made his final exit off stage, he was granted a final wish. He was given the most precious gift that exists next to love, - the gift of time.  I am honoured that he chose me to be a part of his journey as we filled those days with memories. 

He said it best in one of his most beautiful songs:

"There's a clock in the hall, stands by the wall, it's life to chime and move on. One thing I've learned as I've watched those hands turn, time is the meaning of all"

Along the way, we were blessed with support from family, friends and some medical teams who believed in us - offering love, support, music and even a laugh when we needed it most - we are forever grateful. 

Dad, 

Thank you for my life, every valuable lesson you taught me and for always believing in me. 

Thank you for choosing the woman you did to be my Mom. You both have given me strength and guidance that will carry me for an eternity. 

Most of all,  thank you for being my Dad

Cremation has taken place - there will be a celebration of his life (Old Fashioned Kitchen Party) planned for a later time.