Gordon (Gordie) William Hines, beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, teacher, and friend, passed away peacefully on Sept. 20, 2026. 

Gordie was born on March 29, 1948, in Sydney, Nova Scotia, to the late George and Alice Hines. He grew up in Sydney’s Ashby district and attended Sydney Academy High School, where he distinguished himself as an honour student and accomplished athlete, winning both the men’s singles and doubles at the Nova Scotia provincial badminton championships. His academic achievements earned him a scholarship to Mount Allison University in New Brunswick, where he completed Bachelor of Science and Education degrees. 

Gordie began his teaching career in Dorchester, New Brunswick. Although his first years in the classroom presented challenges, he persevered and went on to build a long and rewarding career as a junior and high school teacher. He eventually married Paula Marie MacIsaac, the love of his life. In the mid-1970s, they moved west to Medicine Hat, Alberta, during the province’s first “boom.” There, Gordie taught at McCoy High School and became a valued member of the school community. However, they were homesick for Cape Breton and returned in the 1980’s. Gordie eventually became a teacher at MacLennan Junior High in Westmount, where he completed his teaching career. 

Throughout his teaching career, Gordie formed many lasting friendships with colleagues, students, and members of the communities where he lived. It was not unusual for him to encounter former students or former colleagues while shopping. These chance meetings reflected the lasting impression he made on those around him and the meaningful connections he maintained throughout his life. 

Gordie had many interests, but sailing was his true passion. He and Paula owned several boats over the years and particularly enjoyed spending their summers sailing and racing on the beautiful Bras d’Or Lakes of Cape Breton - Maskells harbour was one of his favourite spots. He found great joy and freedom on the water, and sailing remained an important part of his life. He was also an avid reader, with a particular interest in history and could often be found absorbed in a good book. Gordie also enjoyed playing chess, cribbage, Tarabish, and all kinds of board games, bringing his curiosity, intellect, and love of friendly competition to each of these pastimes.

 Gordie is survived by his daughter, Allison and granddaughter Shivaun (of Etobicoke, ON) ; his son, Robert (Rob) (of Berwick, NS); his brother, Rob (Sr.) (of Calgary, AB), and in-laws Donna MacIsaac (Alfred) Dinaut (of Ben Eoin, NS). He was predeceased by his wife, Paula Marie. Cremation has taken place and a family gathering to honour Gordie will be held in the summer of 2027 (announcement to follow). His memory will live on in the many lives he touched, in the stories shared by those who knew him, and in the waters of the Bras d’Or Lakes that he loved so dearly.

Gordie’s family are especially grateful for the kindness, care, and attention given to Gordie by the staff at Harbourstone Enhanced Care (Cathy, Shauna, Mark, Tia et al) during his last few years and also to the staff (Dr. Giorno and nurse Viraji) at the CBRH Palliative Care Unit during the more recent days.