Obituary: Gordon, Laurene E.
Age 94
She was preceded in death by the love of her life and husband of 53 years, Charles Lloyd Gordon, and her siblings: Laverne Kress, Jean Lee, and Deloris Blue.
She also was preceded in death by her eldest son, Thomas Patrick.
She is survived by four children: Sandra Lea, Sharon Ann (Vince Palagonia), Timothy Martin (Lisa Schumaker), and Leesa Sjolin (Harold Kaufman); eight grandchildren: Steven, Susan, Patricia, Kyle, Michael, Mariah, Shanna, and Christine; and nine great-grandchildren.
Laurene was born in Remsen Township and raised in Sioux City Iowa.
Wanting to do something with her life after graduating high school in 1938, she traveled to California, graduated Business College, and worked briefly as a secretary in a Catholic Rectory.
She met Charles at a US0 dance, and said that he wanted to marry her right away, but she took some time before they married in San Bernardino on November 25, 1943.
After the war, the couple traveled back to Sioux City.
They moved once more across country and settled in Spokane, where Charles worked and supported the family, and kept the gender roles traditional.
Laurene spent the majority of her life keeping a beautiful home and raising their five children, who have fond memories of coming home from school to wonderful smells of homemade cakes and cookies at any time of the year, but especially Christmas.
Leesa, especially, benefitted from hand decorated birthday cakes.
The children have grown to appreciate the time she spent in making a loving home and teaching them the solid values by which they live.
The couple were active members in St. Paschal’s Parish, and she was a member of the Woman’s Guild, who were a comfort to her when Charles died in 1995.
After her husband’s death, she lived quietly, still taking pride and joy in her family, especially with each new grand-baby as they were born.
She was always happiest simply to be present in family celebrations and holidays.
The family would like to express deepest appreciation to all the staff of Good Samaritan Society, who was so kind and compassionate truly exhibiting Christ’s love.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Good Samaritan Society of the Spokane Valley, 17121 E. 8th Ave. 99016.
Information is available at www.hennesseyfuneralhomes.com.