Gordon Clayton Spink

Gordon was born on January 6, 1935, to John Clayton and Marian Taylor Spink in Lansing, Michigan. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Edward. He graduated from Lansing Eastern High School in January 1953 and started at Michigan State College (now Michigan State University), graduating in 1957 with a bachelor’s degree. He joined the U.S. Air Force as a Lieutenant and was a navigator on a KC97 in the US Air Force SAC (Strategic Air Command). He was stationed at Pease Air Force Base in New Hampshire, and that is where he met his future wife, Jane. They were married in 1960 in Jane’s hometown of York, Maine.

After leaving the Air Force, Gordon and Jane returned to Michigan, where he pursued his graduate studies at MSU. He received his PhD in 1966 and his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) in 1975. Gordon retired from MSU as an Associate Professor Emeritus. He was the Director of Medical Education at Flint Osteopathic Hospital (now Genesys Regional Medical Center) and then at Ingham Regional Medical Center (now McLaren Greater Lansing).

Gordon loved life and aimed to enjoy each moment. He loved his family and had many wonderful times and trips with them, including the White Mountains, Maine, Disney World, and Up North Michigan. Gordon loved “Up North” and eating lobster in his adoptive State of Maine. He also loved Michigan State University and appreciated all the opportunities it provided him.

Over the last few months, weeks, and days, it’s been fantastic to reminisce with him about so many friends in so many situations – we’ve laughed about as hard as ever! The memories and rich friend experiences are too many to even start to mention, but if you were part of his journey, know that you were in our thoughts. He also shared a new family mantra with others – “111” – sending a quick text message code, reminding us to live in the next one minute, one hour, or one day. If we do not stay mindful and present, even in the midst of so many challenges and stressors, we might miss the joy of the moment. Even in some often very challenging moments, “111” helped us step back, have a good laugh, and enjoy time together.

Gordon is survived by his wife of 65 years, Jane, and two children, John (Lori) of Michigan, and Anne (Lance) Malin of New Hampshire. He was “Bompa” to two grandchildren, whom he adored, Celia and Kirill, who brought much joy and love to his world. Special memories include hours walking in Crego Park and Fenner Arboretum with Kirill, and sharing adventures through visits, phone calls, and texts with Celia. He is also survived by nieces, nephews, and cousins, and many, many dear friends. For the past two years, Gordon lived at home with reduced mobility but with a sharp mind and fully enjoyed visits and laughter with friends. His friends enriched his life, and he would want you to remember happy memories together.

Funeral arrangements were through Gorseline-Runciman Funeral Home. As per Gordon’s wishes, he was to be cremated. A private service has been held. Gordon and family would like to thank the compassionate support from friends, caregivers, the hospice house, and medical personnel.

He wanted to remind everyone to take a moment to hug someone you love and to be tireless in your effort to be kind.