Richard Ross Gordon passed away peacefully at the age of 89, at his daughter’s home, surrounded by his loving family, on December 24th. Richard was born May 17th, 1934, in Swan, Iowa to Dick and Frances Gordon. He grew up in Swan learning to fish, hunt, garden, find the best mushroom spots, and developing a love for the outdoors that he carried with him throughout his life. He passed this love onto his children and grandchildren, teaching them all he knew about all of the things he loved to do.

Richard attended school in Swan until the 10th grade, when the school closed, and the “Swan Kids” were sent to Pleasantville. He graduated from Pleasantville High School in 1951. Upon graduation, Richard joined the United States Navy where he served during the Korean Conflict. He was commissioned on the USS Point Cruz where he served his country from 1952-1956.

After leaving the Navy, Richard worked at AMF Western Tool as a foreman until the company closed in 1988. In 1960 Richard married Shirley Ann Brown and they raised their four children in Swan.

Richard was an avid outdoorsman. He knew the best fishing and mushroom spots in all of Marion County, He loved playing cards and having a cold beer with his friends. He loved driving around in his little truck with his faithful dog, Murphy, always by his side. He was a great storyteller and chances are, if you knew him well, you have a few stories to tell about him. He was a true friend to many and will be greatly missed.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Dick and Frances Gordon; his wife Shirley; his son, Douglas Lee; and a great-granddaughter, Brynlee Patterson. He is survived by his children, Gary Gordon, Steve Gordon (Angie), and Rhonda Koerselman (Tim). He also leaves behind 10 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

His family would like to thank St. Croix Hospice for the exceptional care in his last few months, especially his nurses Alanna and Steph.

Richard will be cremated, and the family will have a graveside service at the Swan Cemetery and celebration of his life in the spring.