James Edward Gorton Jr.

1953 - 2017

James Edward Gorton Jr. obituary, 1953-2017, Bonita Springs, FL

BORN

1953

DIED

2017

FUNERAL HOME

Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home

28300 So. Tamiami Tr.

Bonita Springs, Florida

James Gorton Obituary

James E. Gorton Jr., 64, of Bonita Springs, Fla., and Silver Lake, N.Y., died most unexpectedly on May 8, 2017. Jim was born on Feb. 19, 1953, to the late James Sr. and Doris Davis Gorton.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Judith Martin Gorton. He also leaves behind his beloved children, Christopher (John) and Jeffrey. He is also survived by his bereaved sisters, Lynn Gorton, Ann Schneider, Kathryn (Buddy) Houseknecht and Martha (Grant) Newton; his adored grandsons, Satcher, Trice and Mason; nephew, Matt Schneider; nieces, Megan and Ella Houseknecht, Sadie Newton and Sierra Rocili; sisters-in-law, Jane Rhode and Janet (Scott) Voss; first wife, Janet Gorton; and, of course, his treasured basset hound, Billy.
Jim was a 1971 graduate of Batavia High School. He earned a baccalaureate degree from Bowling Green State University and a law degree from the University of San Diego. Jim practiced law for 40 years, primarily in Anchorage, Alaska. He was well respected for his grasp of the law and compassion for his clients.
In addition to his accomplishments in the legal profession, Jim loved to play golf, boat and work in his yard.
Jim will live in the hearts of everyone who knew him. His devotion to his family will be truly missed.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, May 12, 2017, at 4 p.m., at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, Bonita Springs, Fla.
As an expression of sympathy, in lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions made in Jim's memory to: Alaska Chapter of the Innocence Project, Box 201656, Anchorage, AK 99520; or Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Venice in Florida in support to the St. Leo's after school and Summer Positive Youth Development programs, 1000 Pinebrook Rd., Venice, FL 34285.
Online condolences may be offered at www.shikanyfuneralhome.com.

Published by Anchorage Daily News on May 11, 2017.
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Memories and Condolences
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Shocked and saddened to read of the passing of James Gorton. We attended John Kennedy Elementary School together and were best buddies. Sang together in St. James choir; went to many Sat. Matinees at the Dipson or Mancuso theaters downtown Batavia. My dad took us to see the movie "Mr. Sardonicus." We got so scared, we ended up in the same seat hugging each in fright. RIP Jimmy. (He's the one on the right below. My 10th birthday.)

Paul Powell

February 13, 2020

Thinking of Jim today! Dan and Esther Levitan

Dan Levitan

Friend

May 5, 2019

Very difficult to accept that you're gone, dad. I love and miss you so much. 'Till we see each other again on the other side...

Christopher Gorton

June 16, 2017

We are so sorry and saddened to learn of the passing of Jim. Such a kind, gentle man, a good friend. With our love and deepest sympathy to Judi, Katy, Buddy, Lynn, Anne, Martha and all of the family. May God bless all of you in this time of sorrow.

Kathleen & Joe Sichko

May 27, 2017

Ann, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your brother Jim. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Kenna Singletary

May 17, 2017

Dear Gorton Family,

My deepest condolences on the loss of Jim. Jim was kind, generous, and a very talented lawyer. I spent one year with his firm in Alaska before becoming an ADA. Jim offered me the opportunity of a job and courtroom experience. Moreover, working at his firm was just fun!!!

Deepest condolences,

Diane T. Noshay, Esq.
(nee O'Gorman)

May 15, 2017

Very sorry to hear about the passing of Jim. We lived together in law school and shared many good times and laughs. Please accept my sincere condolences. Danny Levitan

May 13, 2017

Jim was a wonderful dear friend and helped me during a difficult time back in 1986. I am so very sad to hear of his passing. Prayers to the family during this difficult time.

Wendy Neugebaur (Goldbar)

Friend

May 13, 2017

My sincere condolences to Judy, Jeff, Janet, and all the boys (Satcher, Trice, and Mason). I'm so sorry to hear of Jim's passing -- he was especially a wonderful Grandpa to the boys. Jeff, those are big shoes to fill; I'm sorry for what you are all going through. May Jim's laughter ring in your ears, and great memories fill the hole in your hearts.

Rhonda Butterfield

May 12, 2017

Jim lives on for me, as I know he must for many, as a smile on the lips and a chuckle that sneaks out now and then, as exploits and excesses of law school days are remembered. My condolences to family.

Andy Holcombe

May 11, 2017

It seems like yesterday when I hired Jim to come to Alaska as a legal intern in '77. He came back after graduating and married my secretary, so I guess our meeting in a USD inteview room was fateful. We had so many good times over the years from Alaska to the West Indies. Wish they could have continued forever.

Jerry Wertzbaugher

May 11, 2017

He will be missed by so many. Beautiful man with a big heart. My love to Judy, Ann, all sisters, Jeff, Chris, Satch, Trice, Mason and Janet.

Jane Burmeister

May 11, 2017

My condolences to Jim's family and friends. I enjoyed practicing law alongside him through the years.

Shelley Chaffin

May 11, 2017

We are deeply stunned and saddened to hear about Jim's passing. He was a true friend and a kind and gentle soul. We will both cherish the wonderful times spent with Jim and Judy especially on the golf course. May God give you the strength and guidance during this difficult time.

Robert and Pamela Redisch

May 11, 2017

So very sorry to read this this morning. My specific thoughts are with you, Anne. I just remember the fun times and would love to get together. Remember I also worked with Jim and Janet on their house. Take good care always and my condolences to all! Bonnie Jermain

May 11, 2017

Thinking of you at this sad time and sending love. Cherish the wonderful memories.

Janet and Scott Voss

May 11, 2017

Love you Uncle Jim.

Meredith Basdaras

May 11, 2017

Very difficult to accept that we won't see Jim again. A lovely kind, gentle man, clever, a great wit and a good friend.
Deepest sympathy to Judi, Katy, Buddy, Lynn, Anne, Martha and all the family.

Brian and Pamela McAlister

May 11, 2017

So sorry to hear of your loss, we will keep you in our thoughts and prayers and may your hearts be filled with wonderful memories.

The Ashcraft Family

May 11, 2017

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Memorial Events
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May

12

Mass of Christian Burial

4:00 p.m.

St. Leo the Great Catholic Church

Bonita Springs, FL

Funeral services provided by:

Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home

28300 So. Tamiami Tr., Bonita Springs, FL 34134

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