The W. A. Gorman Teaching Legacy Fund

This fund commemorates Al`s love of teaching and positive influence on so many graduates of the department.

The objective of this fund is to enhance teaching of introductory geology, quaternary geology and airphoto courses. Al taught over 10,000 students during his career, many of whom entered geology because of his passion for the subject.

The ultimate goal is to raise $3 million to fund the "Gorman Fellow"- a permanent faculty member who will teach these courses, and vitalize the teaching in the first year geology courses.

Give Now

Gorman, W. Alan, Ph. D.

Passed peacefully in his 88th year at home in Newmarket on December 8th, 2012.  Survived by his brother Jack (June), his children Ian (Susan), Barbara, and Judy (Mark Nesbitt) and his four grandchildren Jocelyn, Ethan, Shannon and Braeden.  Predeceased by his wife Luella.

After serving in the RCAF from 1943-1946 he earned his Ph. D. at McGill University in Geological Sciences and began his teaching career at Queen’s University  in 1955.  He continued working with students until 2012, winning several teaching awards including the Alumni Teaching award.  He enjoyed playing hockey regularly with staff and students, who affectionally called him Elbows, continuing to play right up to the age of 82.

The family would like to thank Dr. Baguio and the palliative care team at the Stronach Regional Cancer Centre and Angie Flamino from CHATS for the outstanding care.

A celebration of his life will be held at 2:30PM on January 18th in Wallace Hall at the John Deutsch University Centre at Queen’s University in Kingston.  

If desired, donations in memory of Al can be made to the Department of Geological Sciences and Geological Engineering's Dr. W. A. Gorman Legacy Teaching Fund. www.givetoqueens.ca/geology.

Messages of remembrance or condolence can be sent to; remembering.uncle.al@gmail.com

View the Memorial Service

View the Slideshow Presentation