SUNRISE AND SUNSET – A MEMORIAL FOR GORDON COORAY – By Bernard VanCuylenburg.
There is an old saying that “Good friends come into our lives too late, and leave too early”. Antonians of a younger generation may have only heard of Gordon Cooray by name. Citing my own example – I joined St. Anthony’s College in January 1951 and Gordon left college in 1953 or 1954. I only made Gordon’s acquaintance when I came to Australia 6 months short of forty years in this country. But it was forty years in which I found that Gordon by virtue of whom he was, made the world a better place for me and many others. He gave of himself in the service of his fellow human beings, and often walked the extra mile for anybody who sought his assistance or advice.
The Memorial Mass held for Gordon Cooray on Sunday the 14th April at The Resurrection Church in Keysborough was a very moving ceremony for a well loved Antonian who left us five months ago, leaving a huge void in our hearts. Reverend Father Brian Collins the Parish Priest who conducted the service referred to Gordon in his opening address and requested the prayers of the congregation for the repose of his soul. It was a time for quiet reflection on the life of someone very special not only to the Antonian community, but to everybody who knew him – and also a time of thanksgiving for the joy and comfort Gordon brought into our lives.
After Mass we rendezvoued at “Upalis”, a popular restaurant for lunch. We were happy to see Walter Lodewyke and Karin who graced the occasion with their presence all the way from Sydney. The heartache and memory of missing Gordon was also tinged with mirth and merriment, and that is how Gordon would have wanted it. It was an afternoon when the hand of memory weaved a tapestry of blissful times and precious moments of long ago when Gordon played a pivotal role in all things Anthonian, and his advice was sought by many, because the genial Gordon was a friend to all. He touched the lives of all who knew him and won their hearts and minds. An year has passed since his sudden “Goodbye” and the veil of grief has not yet lifted. Because Gordon was a stalwart figure in the Club, it is very hard for us to reconcile to the fact that he has now gone to greener pastures. If the tributes paid to Gordon are recorded here, this article would not be sufficient. To know Gordon was to love him, and he gave of his time, help and advice to anybody needing it.
Gordon, too soon you left us and we could not even beg you to stay for one more day. How dark and lonely are the nights for us left behind to grieve, who had no opportunity to bid you a final “Goodbye”. But we will always remember you very fondly and cherish your precious memory. The link will never be broken. In the sunset golden glow of God’s garden, take your repose………until the glorious sunrise tomorrow.
The President of the Old Anthonians Club Ashok Ariyaratnam addressed the old boys present with a warm tribute to Gordon, and expressed his hopes that the Club with the support of all old Anthonians will only reach greater heights.
And on that positive note, a beautiful afternoon laced with legendary Anthonian camaraderie came to an end.
Bernard VanCuylenburg.
