Ernest Gourley

With sadness, the family of Ernest W. Gourley, formerly of River Glade, announces his passing at the Veteran’s Health Center on May 18, 2022.

Dad was born in Steeve’s Settlement on December 30, 1923. He was a son of the late Harry W. Gourley, who gave him the nickname of Poeg, and Winnifred Helen (Eastwick) Gourley.

Dad was a member of the former St. Peter’s Church in Riverglade and a veteran of World War 2 as first Canadian Army Ambulance Convoy from 1942-1946 which allowed him to serve in Canada and throughout Europe. He was the past president of the #31 Salisbury Legion in which he was a member for 76 years. He worked as a fur buyer, fox rancher, past president and co-founder of G.W.B Enterprises and the former owner of the Riverglade Trailer Park. Dad was employed by CN Shops, NB Forestry and No.5 Supply Depot. He became a self-employed merchant in 1957 when he purchased Gourley’s Groceries from his father and carried on the rural tradition of buying goods on time and when needed.

Our father enjoyed hunting, fishing trapping and most of all playing with his grandkids.

Dad will be dearly missed by his son, Michael (Doreen), daughters: Maryann, Debby, Gwendolyn (Brian), Elaine (Clive) as well as several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife of 66 years, Jean Campbell; his daughter, Patricia Jean; his sisters: Marguerite, Madeline and Jane; his brothers, Harry (Joe) and Caldon (Kelly).

The family would like to say a special thank you to the Veteran’s Health Center staff for their care and kindness to our Dad during his stay.

There will be no service by personal request. Private graveside service will be held at Fair Haven Memorial Gardens where Mom and Dad will be put to rest together.

If desired, donations in memory of Ernest may be made to a charity of the donor's choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Salisbury Funeral Home (372-4800.)