Michael Ivan Gordon

1948 - 2021

TUCSON, Ariz. - Michael Ivan Gordon (Mike), 72, beloved husband to Jean (nee Gellerman), died peacefully in Tucson, Arizona, on June 8, 2021, after a courageous battle with cancer. Mike was born on October 5, 1948, in Waukegan, Illinois, to Rose and Leonard Gordon. He spent much of his life in the Chicago area, ultimately calling Michigan and Arizona home.

As an undergraduate, Mike attended the University of Illinois in Champaign, Urbana, and Roosevelt University in Chicago. In 1974, he received his MBA from the University of Arizona, where Mike developed his love for all things Arizona. He later served for many years on the National Board of Directors of the Arizona Alumni Association, and was an avid fan of his Wildcats, rarely missing a basketball game.

Mike served honorably in the U.S. Army Reserves, and would often regale his friends with stories of his stint as tank commander. This was a position he had tremendous respect for, and apparently little aptitude.

Mike enjoyed a long and successful career at McDonald's Corporation, rising to an Officer position in Corporate Communications. He traveled the world on behalf of the Brand. Mike led the Public Relations and Media Relations departments, and created the first International Communications function at the Golden Arches. He was a committed and loyal colleague and leader, and particularly proud of his work with the Ronald McDonald House program.

He forged lifelong relationships with people everywhere he went. Mike loved life and everyone loved Mike. He was an astute observer of human nature with his own unique take on the world around him. Mike was a fabulous storyteller, with a comedic flair and exceptional timing.

Mike was a man of many talents and diverse interests, much of it centered on his passion for golf. He was an exceptional player, making the game look easy. In his retirement, he served as President both at Chikaming Country Club in Lakeside, Michigan, and Ventana Canyon Golf & Racquet Club in Tucson, Arizona. He was proud that just a couple of months ago he "shot his age".

The single greatest priority in Mike's life was his wife of 41 years. Mike and Jean role modeled what a marriage should look like. Committed and devoted, yet independent and fully supportive of each other's interests. They made each other better and loved each other deeply.

Mike was a cherished son, brother, and much-loved uncle. He is preceded in death by his parents, Rose and Leonard Gordon. He leaves behind his brothers, Steve (Sally), Rich (Julie) and Fred (Kim), and his brother-in-law Bill Gellerman. He will be deeply missed by his many cousins, nieces and nephews whom he adored, including Jane, Kate, Gabe, Amy, Daniel, Allyson, Sarah, Samantha, Laurie, Allie and Christian.

A private service was held in Tucson, and a Celebration of Life will be held in Michigan at a later date.

Donations in Mike's honor may be made to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana (https://rmhccni.org).