Thomas Edward Gordon

In Loving Memory of Thomas Edward Gordon

Thomas Edward Gordon, affectionately known as Tom, peacefully passed away on August 17, 2023, in his hometown of South Bend, Indiana after a brief fight with cancer. He was 71 years old.

Tom was born on August 16, 1952, in South Bend, Indiana, and grew to become a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished grandfather. From a young age, he discovered a profound love for horses, dedicating his time to the local 4H club in German Township. Tom would continue this love for horses into adulthood where he bred and trained Belgian Draft Horses to ride, drive, and work on the family farm. This passion was a gift he was able to later share with his three beloved children, fostering a deep connection with them and instilling a work ethic that would help them later succeed in various pursuits.

Tom attended LaSalle High School, where he played football and graduated in 1970. From there, he enlisted in the United States Navy.  He served during the Vietnam War aboard the USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63) as an aviation electrician who was assigned to the flight crew. When stateside, he served on an E2-Hawkeye based out of Jacksonville, FL. His military associations cultivated within him an unwavering sense of duty, honor, and commitment, values that shaped his character and guided him throughout his life. After being honorably discharged, Tom would pursue higher education at Kansas State University where he also was a member of the track and football teams.

It was during his journey through life that Tom made his way back to South Bend and met the love of his life, Linda Thorpe Gordon. Together, they discovered a shared passion for the peacefulness and serenity of the open water. Their most cherished moments were found aboard their boat, where they shared countless blissful memories. Tom found utmost joy and contentment in these precious hours spent with Linda. They just celebrated their 41st anniversary.

A majority of Tom’s professional career was dedicated to sales management and business development. There was no business that Tom touched where he did not add value. As a volunteer, Tom served as President of the Near West Side Neighborhood Association and also as a commissioner of the St. Joseph County Preservation Commission, fostering his love and appreciation for historic homes.  Tom and Linda’s own home was a historic home that they revived and rejuvenated with hard work and love. Tom was also actively involved in South Bend Clay Booster Club and multiple PTO organizations over the years.

Tom will forever be remembered and deeply missed by his wife, Linda Thorpe Gordon; as well as his sons, Edward Lee Gordon (Barbara) and Dr. Grant Thomas Gordon (Danielle); his daughter, Christine Katherine McDonald (Jeremy), and his two grandsons, Teddy and Harrison (Edward and Barbara Gordon), who will miss their Papa immensely. Tom is also survived by his mother, Mary Lou Gordon; and his two brothers, Jeff and Russell Gordon.

He is preceded in death by his granddaughter, Evelyn Rose (Christine and Jeremy McDonald); and his father, Carl F. Gordon.

Tom was a pillar of strength and unwavering support. He loved Linda and supported her in every way. He nurtured his children, instilled strong principles, and was always encouraging them to pursue their goals and ambitions.

Tom embraced various hobbies that brought him immense joy and fulfillment. Whether it was navigating the open waters, embarking on adventurous camping trips, indulging in leisurely drives with his loyal Spaniels, or rejoicing in the precious moments shared with his dear grandchildren, he found solace and happiness in life's simplest pleasures.

As we say goodbye to Tom, we are left with profound sadness but also with gratitude for the legacy of love and care he leaves behind. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those fortunate enough to know him.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Legion of Indiana.