Remembering Dr. Gordon Alexander Zello

The College of Pharmacy and Nutrition mourns the passing of Dr. Gordon Alexander Zello, a beloved professor, mentor, colleague, and friend whose influence on the University of Saskatchewan community and the field of nutrition will be felt for generations to come.

Dr. Zello passed away unexpectedly at his home in Saskatoon on March 17, 2026. He was 63 years old.

For 35 years, Gord devoted himself to the University of Saskatchewan, building a career defined by excellence in teaching, innovative research, meaningful service, and an unwavering commitment to the success of his students and colleagues. Yet for all his academic accomplishments, it is his humanity—his warmth, candour, humour, and generosity—that so many remember most vividly.

In her tribute at Gord's celebration of life, Dean Jane Alcorn reflected on an image he had created of himself using artificial intelligence just weeks before his passing. The portrait depicts Gord seated at a rustic worktable, surrounded by scientific instruments, research notes, crops, and symbols of sustainability in a rural African setting. At the centre is his unmistakable smile.

"They say a picture can speak a thousand words," Alcorn said. "This image encapsulates that indelible impression he left on so many of us—the warm, friendly face, the cheerful spirit, and a life devoted to science, nutrition, and global development."

The image is a fitting reflection of the man Gord had become. It captures his optimism, his curiosity, and his enduring commitment to improving lives through nutrition, both at home and around the world.

Since arriving at the University of Saskatchewan in 1992 after completing his PhD at the University of Toronto, Gord approached his work with remarkable energy and conviction.

"In all that he did at USask," Alcorn said, "Gord was a well-intentioned engine with noisy parts. The engine ran true, driven by conviction and care, even if some of its parts occasionally—or not so occasionally—rattled. More often, that rattling was the sound of ideas being tested, assumptions challenged, and systems urged to run better."

It is a description that resonated deeply with those who knew him. Gord was passionate about his ideas and fearless in expressing them. He never shied away from difficult conversations or unpopular positions if he believed they would strengthen the nutrition program, the college, or the university.

Former Associate Dean Academic Yvonne Shevchuk recalled, "He cared deeply about the nutrition program and graduating good dietitians. He was relentless when he believed in an idea—not just for nutrition, but for how the college and university could function better."

That determination stemmed from a profound commitment to helping others succeed.

As a mentor, Gord shaped the careers of countless students and colleagues. He was known for his ability to recognize talent, nurture confidence, and advocate fiercely for those around him.

Marc Morris, a former PhD student, remembered the opportunity Gord gave him at a pivotal moment in his career.

"I came into graduate school without a background in nutrition, but Dr. Zello took a chance on me after reading a letter I had written," Morris said. "He had a remarkable ability to see potential where others might not and took genuine pride in the people he worked with. His belief in me shaped my path in a way I'll never forget."

Former PhD student Keely Shaw said Gord's mentorship extended far beyond research and academics.

"What made Gord exceptional as a mentor was that his investment in students extended well beyond academia," she said. "He made his students feel seen, valued, and celebrated as whole people. He took pride in his students not only as scholars, but as people."

The affection and gratitude expressed by his students spans continents.

Derese Tamiru, Assistant Professor of Human Nutrition at Hawassa University in Ethiopia, said, "I am a witness to his extraordinary contributions to Ethiopians and to the global nutrition community. He was a great person who touched many lives and an exceptional mentor whose guidance shaped so much of my academic journey."

Gord's connection to Ethiopia was especially meaningful. Over many years, he helped build partnerships and contribute to nutrition and food security initiatives that strengthened communities and supported the next generation of nutrition professionals. His work also extended to Ghana and Uganda through global health and One Health initiatives aimed at improving human, animal, and environmental health.

Former colleague Susan Whiting noted simply, "Gord's favourite place was Ethiopia."

For Gord, these collaborations were never just projects. They were relationships grounded in mutual respect, friendship, and a shared desire to improve lives.

Back in Saskatoon, Gord's office and classroom were places of encouragement, challenge, and discovery.

Nutrition students described him as a professor whose enthusiasm was contagious.

"His classroom reflected years of knowledge, brought to life through his passion for nutrition, endless curiosity, and the stories he shared from his travels and experiences," students wrote collectively. "Beyond academics, he will always be remembered as a mentor—a kind and dedicated individual who truly cared about his students."

His colleagues remember him in much the same way.

"He was a joy to cross paths with in the hallway," one colleague reflected. "He was serious about growing the nutrition program, and over the past year it was obvious he was finding more joy and happiness in his life."

Outside the university, Gord was known for his generosity and his gift for bringing people together. He loved cooking and hosting, creating spaces where conversations flowed easily and everyone felt welcome.

Thomas Rotter, a former colleague, recalled Gord's "open-minded and welcoming nature," adding that his sense of humour and talent for cooking and hosting barbecues would be sorely missed.

Those closest to him describe countless acts of kindness—supporting friends and colleagues, opening his home to others, celebrating milestones, and making time for the people he cared about.

"He was kind, had a good sense of humour, and was always willing to help," recalled Alex Crizzle of the School of Public Health. "I will miss our conversations, the laughs, and the simple pleasures we shared."

In recent months, Gord had been looking forward to retirement. He spoke often about travelling, gardening, spending time with his beloved grandsons Nicolas and Simon, and enjoying the companionship of his dog, Happy.

Dean Alcorn ended her tribute with a story about Happy, whom she and her husband occasionally cared for when Gord travelled.

"They say dogs take on the persona of their owner," she said. "Gord's warmth and friendliness shines brightly within Happy."

It is a fitting image to remember Gord by—not only as an accomplished professor and respected scholar, but as someone whose warmth, generosity, and spirit live on in the many lives he touched.

The College of Pharmacy and Nutrition extends its heartfelt condolences to Gord's daughters, Alix, Anastasia (David), and Stephanie (Michael); his grandsons Nicolas and Simon; the mother of his children, Nadine; his many friends and colleagues; and the countless students, collaborators, and community members whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

Dr. Gordon Alexander Zello leaves behind an extraordinary legacy—one built on scholarship, mentorship, friendship, and an unwavering belief in the power of nutrition to improve lives.

He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.