In Memoriam

A photo of Gordon Wolfram grinning and wearing glasses, a blue cap, and a beige collared fleece.
Gordon Hugo Wolfram, BASc’48

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Gordon Wolfram on June 7, 2024, at the age of 101. He is survived by his three children and their families, including three grandchildren, their spouses, and eight great-grandchildren.

Gordon graduated from UBC in 1948 with a degree in civil engineering. Some of his early projects include conducting precise survey work on the water intake tunnel for Alcan’s Kitimat project and helping to start a pre-engineered steel company in BC.

In 1960, Gordon met his wife Dorothy in Costa Rica. The pair moved to Ecuador, where he worked for shortwave broadcasting station HCJB World Radio. Their three children were born during these years.

Gordon was instrumental in planning, surveying, and supervising the construction of a large hydroelectric project and a 22km transmission line through high-elevation peaks. His civil engineering expertise was widely used through hundreds of projects, and his notoriously sturdy concrete is still fondly referred to as “Wolframite.”

After 30 years in Ecuador, Gordon and Dorothy returned to Richmond, BC, to retire. There, they shared a love of gardening, travel, time with family, and involvement in their church, Richmond Faith Fellowship.

Even into his 90s, Gordon could be found volunteering on projects for non-profit organizations. He is remembered for his practical, kind, and humble soul.

Gordon’s quiet spirit touched many lives. He will be deeply missed by both friends and family.