Gordon was born to Chesley “Everett” and Opal Marie (Terrill) Oliver in Bland, Missouri on March 29, 1940. His childhood years were spent in the great outdoors of Bland. As he said himself, “He was born to be ornery”. The fondest memories of his youth were playing basketball with his buddies and fox hunting with his dad.
Gordon attended first through twelfth grades in Bland, graduating as a member of the Class of 1958. After high school, Gordon earned a degree in Electronics from what was then called Linn Technical Junior College. He entered a 4-year apprenticeship program with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and enjoyed a 35-year career in the electrical distribution industry, retiring in 2003.
On December 11, 1960 Gordon was united in marriage to Sharon Delaine Jett and to this union three children were born – Anthony Dale, Gail Dawn and Sherrie Lynn. The couple began their married life in Bland but work would take them to Salem, Missouri and O’Fallon, Missouri before returning to Bland in 1973 where they would raise their family.
Soon after, they joined the fellowship of the First Baptist Church of Belle, Missouri. Gordon was very active in the church serving for many years as a Deacon, Sunday School Director and Sunday School teacher. He was extremely well versed in the Scripture! His knowledge of the Word, along with his ability to explain it, was truly a gift from God. Gordon participated in a prison ministry which he really enjoyed. During the summer of 1974 Gordon participated in a 2-week mission trip to Haiti. While there, the team built 2 church buildings, provided medical care and dug a well by hand for the community.
Gordon had a tremendous Love of Music! He was a member of the church choir and sang in many trios and quartets throughout his life. He was honored to be able to sing at weddings and funerals and other special events. He never tired of listening to Gospel music and burning CD’s for his family and friends.
Another love of Gordon’s was the freedom to ride his motorcycle on the open road. His love of motorcycle riding and sharing the Gospel led him to the Christian Motorcyclists Association where he was a member of the local chapter. He very much enjoyed the fellowship of this group.
Gordon never met a stranger, or as he would say “at least no one stranger than me”. He loved to tell jokes and stories to everyone he met. His quirky sense of humor will be missed by many.
Gordon was preceded in death by his wife, Sharon, infant daughter, Gail, both parents and his sister, Charlene Giertych.
Survivors include: son, Anthony (Tony) Oliver and wife Malinda, of Bland, MO.; daughter, Sherrie Roberson and husband Kevin, of Cleveland, MO.; five grandchildren, Brenton Oliver, Kayla Roberson, Mason Oliver and wife Olivia, Kylen Roberson and Kasey Roberson and fiancé Billy Hurtie; and a great-granddaughter, Avalynn Muder.
Gordon’s faith in his Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ, made him the man he was. He remained devoted to God and steadfast in his faith to the very end. In one of his final conversations he boasted not of himself but in God as he quoted 2 Corinthians 12:9, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness”. This verse set the stage for Gordon’s final hours on earth. He left this world in complete peace and now fully comprehends God’s Amazing Grace!
