Gordon Ernest HAMILTON

01/28/1932 - 11/08/2015

HAMILTON, Gordon Ernest (Age 83) Passed away peacefully after a prolonged illness, surrounded by family at his son David's home in Missoula, Montana, on Sunday, November 8, 2015. Gordon was born on January 28, 1932, in Colville, Washington, to Benjamin Alfred and Della Mae (Koerner) Hamilton. He was the oldest child, followed by three sisters. Gordon grew up in Colville graduating in 1950. He served in the Army for two years, including a tour in Korea. Once out of the military, he returned to Colville where he met Mary Janette Roeder. They married on June 17, 1955, in Rice, WA. Gordon and Mary made their home in Spokane, WA, where they raised four children. Gordon worked as an operating engineer at Darigold Processing Plant for 33 years. Gordon was a dedicated family man, a lay leader in the Free Methodist Church, and active in his community as a union shop steward, 4H Leader, and board member at Free Methodist Credit Union. Gordon loved spending time with family and friends outdoors camping, motorcycling, hiking, and singing old gospel songs. After retiring Gordon and Mary volunteered as hosts at Camp Sanders in Tensed, Idaho. Gordon will be remembered for his integrity, generosity, and care for his family and friends. Gordon is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Mary Hamilton; his sons David (Rebecca) Hamilton of Missoula, MT, Doug (Karen) Hamilton of Seattle, WA, Dale (Leslie) Hamilton of Caldwell, ID, and his daughter Danette (Mark) Gaetke of Reno, Nevada; his sisters Irene (Jim) Erdman of Colville, WA, Carol Currier of Gresham, Oregon, and Shirley (Dave) Eide of Spokane, WA; and 11 grandchildren. Gordon's memorial service is planned for 5:00pm on Saturday, November 28, at First Free Methodist Church in Spokane, WA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Sanders Christian Camp, 11321 Sanders Rd., Tensed, ID 83870.