Honoring the Legacy of Dick and Ella Gondek

Golden’s history is shaped not only by its landscapes and industries, but by the people who poured their lives into building this community. Among those remembered with deep affection are Dick and Ella Gondek—whose story is one of hard work, generosity, and enduring impact.

Dick Gondek was born in Daggett, Michigan in 1926, one of eleven children raised on a modest farm. From a young age, he worked to support his family, driving milk trucks before school and hauling Christmas trees across the state. His early experiences instilled a lifelong ethic of perseverance and service.

After studying forestry and landscape architecture at Michigan State College, Dick worked with the Forest Service and later in the lumber industry in Montana. It was there he met Ella Sluys, and together they began a partnership that would span decades and leave a lasting mark on our valley.

In 1961, the Gondeks moved to Donald, B.C. when Dick took on the role of manager—and later part-owner—of Selkirk Spruce Mills. Under his leadership, the mill became a cornerstone of the local economy. Dick also served as President of the Golden Chamber of Commerce, helping guide the town through years of growth and change.

But his contributions didn’t stop at industry. Dick raised limousin cattle in Golden and Nicholson, built homes and businesses, and later worked in real estate. He was a skilled craftsman, known for making birdhouses that were donated to the Golden Boy Scouts and placed throughout the valley. His love of nature and community was evident in everything he did.

Dick and Ella shared a love of travel, exploring much of North America and beyond. Yet their greatest joy was family. Dick proudly called himself a “professional Grampa,” and his grandchildren remember him for his warmth, humour, and the many adventures they shared.

Ella, his steadfast partner for nearly 51 years, was equally cherished in the community. Together, they built a life rooted in kindness, integrity, and commitment to others.

Today, we honour Dick and Ella not only for what they built, but for how they lived—with generosity, vision, and heart. Their legacy continues to echo through the valley, in the homes they helped raise, the businesses they supported, and the lives they touched.