Gordon Van Uitert
July 16, 1944 - June 24, 2009
Gordon Van Uitert
July 16, 1944 – June 24, 2009
Gordon Van Uitert, 64, passed away peacefully at home, with his loving family gathering by his side on June 24, 2009, after a 6-year struggle with Alzheimer’s and Lewy body dementia. Born July 16, 1944, in Fresno, California, he lived most of his life in California, Bend, Oregon, and Roy, Utah.
His family was the center of his life, and one of their treasured activities was the yearly trip to the Oregon Coast, where they camped and stayed in beautiful places for over 40 years. He loved playing basketball, baseball, boating, fishing and gatherings with family and friends. He was loved by many friends. He was such a kidder, voted “The Wittiest” young man in his graduating class of 1962. He retained his great sense of humor to the end of his journey.
Gordon worked in retail management positions, for Piggly Wiggley, 3 Boy’s Market, Pacific Fruit & Produce, Smith’s Food King and Flying J where he especially enjoyed his work and friends.
Retiring early due to Alzheimer’s and Lewy body dementia, Gordon was tenderly cared for by his wife and children and at the end of his life also by Vic and Sandy Freestone (extended family). When he was unable to walk due to Parkinson’s symptoms and seizures, he was wheeled in a wheelchair to his grandchildren’s and kid’s soccer and baseball games, which he dearly loved attending.
Gordon married Suzan Smith June 16, 1966. He is the loving father of 5 children: Shawna (Robert) Ellis, Kevin (Michelle) Van Uitert, Keri (Gregg) Williams, Amy (Curtis) Mortenson, and Darby (Ben Tribe) Van Uitert, who survive him. His grandchildren brightened his life. They are: Zachary and Alexandra Ellis, Skyler and Kaylee Boyd, Brittnee and Shelbie Williams, Masyn Nay, Kenlee Tribe, Kevin Jr., Daniel and Beth Van Uitert and great grandson, Kayden Anderson.
Also surviving are brother Gary (Susie) Van Uitert and sister Evelyn Spurlock and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Antonie and Evelyn Van Uitert, brother Ronald, brother-in=law Randy Spurlock, and nephews Brent Freestone, Mark, Terry and Shane Van Uitert.
We wish to thank Dini Droguett and the Alzheimer’s support group for their tender love and support, Dr. Steffens for his wonderful care over the course of Gordon’s disease, and also the sweet caregivers of Inspiration Hospice. His brain was donated to research in an effort to help find a cure for these devastating diseases.
A viewing/gathering of family and friends will be held at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City on Sunday, June 28th from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. A celebration of Gordon’s life will be held in the Clinton Ward Chapel, 2300 N. 2206 W., Clinton, Utah at 11:00 AM. on Monday, June 29th where a viewing will begin at 9:30 AM. Gordon will be taken to Oregon by his family and a short service and burial will be held at Gilliland Cemetery in Sweet Home, Oregon, on Wednesday, July 1st at 10:00 AM.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Alzheimer’s Association or the Brent Freestone Memorial Scholarship fund, c/o Sandy Freestone, P.O. Box 188, Silverthorne, Colorado 80498.
In Loving Memory
Van Uitert Family, Gordon was such a sweet and gentle spirit who will be greatly missed by many. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help. Rest in peace sweet man. Love you guys, DJ, Tara, Ryker, Kamryn and Baby Weaver
Tara Weaver
Syracuse, uT
Our thoughts and prayers are with your entire family at this time. You are such an amazing family, lead by an amazing man. We hope you will all find peace in time. For now, please let us know if there is anything we can do for you.
Mindy Provence
West Point, UT
Sue & Family, Our deepest and warmest friendship are sent you during this very difficult time. Gordan was a joy to know even during his illness, and we are blessed because we had that opportunity. Please know that we care and our good thoughts well be sent your way during this time of such loss. Warment regards and Love Colleen & Glen Anderson Members of the Alzheimer's Support Group
Colleen & Glen Anderson
Sandy, Ut
Dear Sue & Family, Caring for Gordon was truly an honor and a privilege. He loved his family and that love was returned. We send to you our love and we will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. We know the wonderful memories you have of Gordon will be treasures that will sustain you through this time. With Love, Your friends at Inspiration Hospice
Inspiration Hospice
Murray, UT
Dear Sue, Amy and Family, It's been many, many years since I've seen you guys, but do remember your family well. I'm so sorry for your loss and will be praying for your family. Amy, I remember your Dad taking us boating at Murtaugh lake and what a fun guy he was! I would love to reach you and catch up. Please call me anytime: 208-559-0509 ~Amy Beard-Coe
Amy Beard - Coe
Boise, Id
Sue, We were so sorry to read of you loss in the Bend Bulletin this morning. What a wonderful tribute you shared with us. Our thoughts are with you and your family, Von & Cathy Thompson CCHS '65
Von & Cathy Thompson
Prineville, Or
We were so sorry to hear of Gordy's death. We were unaware of his illnesses. It has been so long since we have seen the family. We will always remember his sense of humor, fun and his family. Our prayers are with you Suzan and your family. Harold (Jr.) and Carol Still
Carol Ann Whitney Still
Redmond, OR
I just read of Gordon's passing in the Bend Bulletin. I smile as I remember all the laughs we shared because of his incredible sense of humor. We rest in knowing he is in a better place now. My prayers are with you and your family.
Judy Lipker Warrington
Salem, Or
Dear Van Uitert Family, I'm so sorry to hear about Gordy passing. I am thankful that I happen to be in Utah right now and I will attend the viewing on Sunday. I love you all. Your family was such a big part of my childhood and I will always have fond memories of Gordy and Sue and all of you. Much Love, Janene (Heap) Creer
Janene Heap Creer
Montgomery, AL
Sue and family. I read of Gordy's passing this morning in the Bulletin. You have my condolences. If there is anything I can say to you, don't hesitate to e-mail. I've walked in your shoes so know what you are going through. Take good care of yourself. Carolyn
Carolyn (Wilton) Bird
Bend, Or
I was so blessed to have Gordon as my friend, he touched my life deeply and more than he ever knew. Gordon was the funniest, kindest man. Princess Bride will always be my favorite movie!. thank you Sue for having me over, Gordie was so funny i havent laughed so much. its a very special treasured memory for me to have and add to so many more. may god bless you and the family with strength and peace now to help you get through the coming times. always know i am a friend to call on anytime. with much love and blessings Roxanne Child 801-627-9336
roxanne child
ogden, ut
Dear Sue We are so sorry to hear about your loss. We will always remember the fond times in Beta Circle. Our family sends our love and prayers. Cal & Marilyn Beutler
Cal & Marilyn Beutler
Meridian, Id
?There are two ways to live: you can live as if nothing is a miracle; or you can live as if everything is a miracle.? Bless your family during this time of reflection. I worked with Gordon at Smith's Food King. I smile when I remember him whistling and singing "Don't Worry, Be Happy" with a silly grin and twinkle in his eyes.
Kathi (Green) Malespin
Boise, ID
I wish I could have been there Uncle Gordon and Aunt Susie, as you were both there for my mom and I when my dad passed a little more than a year ago; I really wish...my thoughts and prayers are with you and family nevertheless.
Troy Spurlock
Newberg, oR
Hi Susan and Family. Were so very sorry about Gordons death. Trent and us all talked about the memories we had of your wonderful family and we send our love and heartfelt sympathy. Know you are in our prayers. All is well here in Twin Falls and we say hello to all. Love Dick and Marj Stimpson and Trent and Betty Stimpson
Dick & Marj Stimpson
Twin Falls, Id
I am truley sorry for your loss. I have always admired your family for being as close as you all are. Gordon was a great man!! You are all in our thoughts and prayers!! Please let us know if there is anything we can do. Love you!! Tonia and McKenzie
Tonia Giles
North Ogden, UT
I was so sorry to read in The Bulletin of your loss of Gordy. He was one of those very special people that you are fortunate to meet in life. His sense of humor and wit always brought a smile. You're in my thoughts and prayers. With sympathy, Mary Sue (Chopp) Penhollow, classmate
Mary Sue Penhollow
Bend, Or
Although I haven't seen Gordy in many years (since high school), I remember him vividly. We had a wonderful time riding the bus to and (mostly) from school. We laughed and teased....his wonderful nature was so much fun!!! Take care; my best to the family.. Linda
Linda Slate Grogan
Torrance,, Ca