Many Killam residents are in mourning as we learned of the passing of Gordie Enghoj on Monday, Jan. 11, at the age of 90.

The Killam Memorial Arena is for many the heart of this small town; Enghoj was the indisputed heart of the arena.

The Killam Wheat Kings Jr. B Hockey team based out of Killam have long given Enghoj the title of #1 fan, one he well deserved.

As posted by Killam Recreation, “Gordie played a major part in Recreation here in Killam.”

Enghoj volunteered, along with his father, with the construction of the building, which was very much a community effort, some 70 years ago.

When the Memorial Arena had its grand opening at the New Year’s Eve Hockey Tournament in 1961, it was Enghoj who dropped the ceremonial puck drop in front of a facility full of fans.

Throughout the years he spent in Killam, Gordie volunteered his time helping, both with minor hockey up to senior hockey. Many remember receiving his help in the dressing room tying skates, or just in knowing where to go, especially when school classes were using the facility.

“Gordie even had keys to the facility and often was the first one at the facility on a busy day. He made sure everyone got in the facility and knew what rooms to use.”

Killam Recreation Coordinator Charlene Sutter says, “It’s said he knew the facility schedule. And often knew it better than the rec staff themselves.”

Enghoj offered help throughout the Agriplex; whether it was the bowling alley, swimming pool, or any other event taking place in the building, including Bingo.

“Gordie’s passion was hockey and Killam. He loved the people here.”

It was no secret that Gordie also enjoyed a slice of pie whenever possible, too.

Sutter says, “We missed Gordie when he was no longer able to visit the facility and cheer on his Jr. B’s.

“A spot in the lobby has never been the same without him.

“We will miss him dearly and never forget all that Gordie did for Recreation and the amazing person he was.

“Rest In Peace, Gordie.”

Enghoj was also quite a ladies man, with a host of “girlfriends” throughout the town and nothing would make him giggle more than pretending to catch him “cheating” with another girl.

“He had a beautiful soul,” said one, “He had a heart of gold,” said another, from those paying tribute to his passing.

Enghoj spent the last few years in Killam Long Term care, where he could be back in the town where he was best known and cared for.

Enghoj won’t be forgotten, he holds a place of honour in the Arena lobby, where a drawing by local artist Dan Fee depicts him as Killam Hockey’s #1 fan.

Wheat Kings General Manager Murray Gaume has many fond memories of Enghoj, including when he played for the team.

“Gordie would come in before games and give us a big old rooster call before each game for good luck.” When he was no longer able to do that, Gaume says he was still at every game, cheering the home team on, and helping visitors find dressing rooms.

Gaume says that Enghoj dropped the puck to start every Wheat King season for as long as he was able to do so.

Gaume says, “It’s a sad time; he’s going to be missed.

“He will leave a hole that will never be filled.”

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Leslie Cholowsky
Editor