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John Steven Gordon, 76, Iowa City
Obituaries · December 13, 2023



John Steven Gordon, 76, of Iowa City, Iowa, passed away on Dec. 7, 2023, in Iowa City surrounded by his loving family. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother.

John was born on Oct. 22, 1947, in Iowa City, Iowa, to Donal (Chuck) and Margaret Gordon.

As a young man, he enjoyed bowling, even playing on a team consisting of his father and four brothers. He also enjoyed riding motorcycles.

In 1968, a young woman with blue eyes and small town Iowa roots caught his eye and changed his path. He and Mary were wed in 1971 and together raised a loving, tight-knit family.

Throughout his life, John enjoyed owning, driving, and collecting antique cars, fishing with family, and watching his grandchildren’s many activities. Above all else, John cherished spending time with his family — especially his 11 grandchildren, who were the apple of his eye.

A master of the trades, John possessed a skillful working knowledge of electrical and plumbing and excelled in building roads, constructing homes, and working in residential and commercial construction.

John was a gifted and passionate woodworker and spent countless hours in his workshop creating beautiful furniture and birdhouses. He shared his talent and his heart by crafting countless pieces for the homes of those he loved.

John leaves behind his loving wife of 52 years, Mary Gordon, of Iowa City, and their children: Mundi (Sean) McCarty, Ryan (Kate) Gordon, and Megan (Randy) Laing, all of Solon.

John found immense joy in his grandchildren and treasured each of them: Reed (Hunter) Pinegar, Grace (partner, Austin Gilbert), Mac and Jack McCarty, Grant, Bennett, and Cal Gordon, Ryder, Boden Graeme, and Gage Laing.

John is also survived by his brothers, Dick (Sheryl) Gordon and Gary Gordon; as well as his brothers-in-law, Bob, Brian (Joan), and Brent (Deb) Donohoe; and sisters-in-law Myrna Gordon, Kathy (Terry) Leonard and Janelle (Don) Born. He also leaves behind many adoring nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in passing by his parents; his brothers, Bob Gordon and Don Gordon; parents-in-law, Francis ‘Bud’ and Neva Donohoe; sister-in-law Bobbie Jo Donohoe; and nephews Patrick Leonard and Clay Donohoe.

Visitation services are planned for Wednesday, Dec. 13, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Brown Deer Clubhouse, located at 1900 Country Club Drive, Coralville.

Prior to the visitation, a private family service will be held to honor John’s life. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity or non-profit.

Please join the family in celebrating John’s life and sharing cherished memories during this time of remembrance.