Robert James "RJ" Gorman

It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of RJ Gorman at Margaret Bahen Hospice in Newmarket, surrounded by his daughter and siblings. RJ lived a life demonstrating kindness, generosity, and a deep connection to the communities that he loved. He brought light and positivity with him everywhere.

The family is extremely grateful for the compassionate care that RJ received at Margaret Bahen Hospice and the Magna Cancer Centre, both in Newmarket. We also want to acknowledge the excellent care provided by Dr. Yasmin Rahim, Dr. Danyl Saeed, the staff at the Magna Cancer Centre, Dr. Chad Tyler of Keswick, and Dr. Jerome Green of Newmarket.

RJ was a devoted father of Martina; a beloved brother of John Gorman, Brenda (Michael Andrachuk), Mary (Grant Maidment), Michael Gorman (Marlene), and Nancy Lennon (Michael Halladay). He was also a cherished uncle of many nieces and nephews. RJ was predeceased by his parents, Peter and Rita Gorman; his brothers, Terry and his wife Jill, Peter and his wife Piiri, his niece Heather Andrachuk, and his nephew Sean Lennon. RJ will be deeply missed by his large extended family, numerous friends, and the many people whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

A lifelong salesman, entrepreneur, and community supporter, RJ was well known in the Georgina Community through the building and twenty-year ownership of the GEM Theatre in Keswick, and RJ's World Famous Popcorn. RJ was a skilled boater, spending countless hours on the water throughout his life, enjoying his favourite pastime. He touched countless lives through his generosity, friendship, and unwavering commitment to the community. RJ was particularly passionate about dedicating his time to helping others. Being forever a kid himself, RJ loved helping and supporting children and kids of all ages. The school children of Georgina, East Gwillimbury, and Newmarket benefitted from his generosity and fun-filled spirit. RJ was also a strong supporter of the Georgina Food Pantry, hosting many movie nights with admission being a donation to the food bank. He was extremely proud to be on the board of Big Brothers of York Region, and has had an enduring friendship with his "little brother", Robert Stiemer, for 45 years. RJ was a huge influence on Robert's early life.

His legacy lives on in the memories that he created, the community that he helped shape, and the many lives that he brightened along the way.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honour RJ's memory through a donation in his name to the Margaret Bahen Hospice, or a charity of your choice, or an act of service in your community. He believed deeply in giving back, and there would be no better way to pay tribute to RJ than by helping others.

The family will be gathering privately to share our love for RJ.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the home of Chris Stevenson:

Sunday September 13, 2026 1-5 p.m.

(Rain Date: Sunday, September 20, 2026)

18 Water Fringe Drive, Pefferlaw, (Virginia), ON L0E 1N0

(Main Intersection - Highway #48 and Woodfield Dr.)

This is an outdoor venue, so please bring your lawn chairs.

As RJ would often say… “The only thing in life that is constant is change.”