Gordon Grant

He was born in Vancouver, B.C., and raised in Shelton, WA. He received his B.S. degree in Civil Engineering from St. Martin's College. Then he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force where he fell in love with aviation. He achieved Command Pilot status with over 4000 flying hours (including 101 combat missions and 3600 hours as Instructor Pilot). He served as a F4 Phantom fighter pilot in Korea, Okinawa, Thailand, and Vietnam. He holds seven Air Medals, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Bronze Star, and 2 Distinguished Flying Crosses. He retired at MacDill AFB as a Major in 1982.

In 1990, Gordon joined the Learey Technical Center of Hillsborough County teaching management, supervision, professional development, and computer software programs. Gordon was selected Teacher of the Year for the 1998-99 school year. He retired after 16 years due to declining health.

Gordon accumulated 13 years perfect attendance in Rotary International, serving as Club President (1988-89) and Area Representative (1989-1990). He was a Paul Harris Fellow.

He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Charlotte; two sons, Thomas and Michael (daughter-in-law, Christina, and granddaughter, Sophia); one sister, Donna, her husband John Green; brothers and sisters-in-law; cousins; nephews and nieces; and many close friends.

The family will receive friends Friday 6:00pm-8:00pm at the Gonzalez Funeral Home. A memorial service will follow on Saturday at 3:00pm at St. Paul’s Catholic Church. Afterwards, Gordon’s family asks friends to join them at Charlotte’s home for a celebration of Gordon’s life. Internment will be at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Gordon’s memory to LifePath Hospice.