Charles “Gordon” Stafford, 72, of Beaverton, Ore., passed away Friday, Oct. 13, 2017. Gordon was born in Centralia, Wash., Oct. 6, 1945. He attended Centralia schools and was an excellent student and exceptional baseball and basketball player. Gordon was a strong and determined man, who had a good sense of humor. In 1961, 16 year old Gordon was severely injured in a tragic car-train accident in downtown Centralia. Despite doctors’ opinions that he would never be able to walk again, Gordon beat the odds. He fought hard to walk and later, was able to ride his three wheeled bicycle around town. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elvin B. and Marjorie S. Stafford- Gutschow. Gordon is survived by his sister, Vondean (Robert) Thompson; brother, Stan Stafford; and many nieces, nephews and other family members. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., Friday, Oct. 27, 2017, at Sticklin Funeral Chapel, 1437 S. Gold St., Centralia, with light refreshments to follow in the chapel’s Hospitality Room. Interment will be private.
