Memories from Others:

1. I unfortunatly never had the opportunity to meet Paul, he did attend our Neptune Christmas party one year, and I remember he was very warm and engaging with everyone. I hope that one day I am lucky enough to meet and marry a strong Christian man like Paul.

   Thank you for being such a wonderful influence to so many people!

   ~ Anonymous, May 7th, 2008

2. Paul has always been a person that I have aspired to most of my life. He was a man that stood for
   honesty, integrity, humility, apprciation, godliness and an overall inspiration for anyone who had the privilage of knowing him. He will always be remembered as a person who did so much for so many. I’m sure we will all miss him at Gordon Food Service but we can all take comfort in knowing we knew a truly great man who’s time had come to join our father in heaven and he is happy.

   Tim White

   ~ Anonymous, May 7th, 2008

3. During my brief 9 years with GFS, I have made it a regular habit to thank “Uncle Paul” for all that I have received from the BEST company in the world….my salary, my benefits, my friends, my future. We all feel like we are more than employees for the Gordon family. We truly feel like members of the family. We are all better people for having known Paul. It is our charge to continue to fight the good fight and to celebrate your life each day. God Bless you, Mr. Paul Gordon.

   ~ Fred Hedin, May 7th, 2008

4. We have been truly blessed to have known Paul for more than 20 years. He was such a source of inspiration to us and all that knew him. He lived his life to serve our Lord and to serve all those around him. May we never forget how he taught us to love one another and treat each other as though we are all first class citizens, regardless of our title or position. He truly epitomized the life of a servant leader.

   We thank him for the gift his living has brought to each of us. We thank him and the Gordon family for their courage and commitment to keeping Gordon Food Service a Christian-based company. What a beautiful life he lived and shared with us. When we think of him we will smile.

   Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers continue to be with the Gordon family. May you find comfort in the Lord.

   ~ Greg and Susie Spleet (Great Lakes East Division), May 7th, 2008

5. Above all I will remember Paul as a man that “let his light so shine before men” so that they could see the love that he had for Jesus. Paul always remembered the names of people that he met. I also loved his sense of humor. I always hoped that I would have the chance to be called on stage to be greeted by a warm smile and handshake from Paul Gordon. He will be missed

   ~ Steve Levi GLW, May 7th, 2008

6. “Many of us are, at this point, turning over the reins to the next group of family or managers. It has been a learning experience. The future looks great with these young people taking charge. ”

   “Please keep on doing what you are doing. It’s worthwhile, it’s critical, and its value can do nothing but increase. ”

   Only a few of the many words he left with us.

   The future is indeed great, as we stand on the shoulders of giants such as Paul Gordon.

   ~ CMcQ, May 7th, 2008

7. My favorite personal memory was Winner Circle 1996 when Paul spent a few moments talking to Casey and I at the bow of a paddle wheel boat moving by Nashville TN. He talked and laughed, making an already special evening even more memorable. Thank you Paul, for helping build a company culture where I could learn to serve others and provide many great opportunities for my family.

   ~ Mike Van Horn, May 7th, 2008

8. I will miss you very much and what you stood for. I want to thankyou for always giving God the glory for our success with GFS. I want to thankyou for giving me the opportunity to work for such a great company. I have only met two level 5 leaders in my life. My father John Myers and Paul Gordon. Thankyou, Melinda and I will keep Dottie and your family in our prayers.

   ~ Bob Myers, Marketplace, May 7th, 2008

9. First I want to extend to the Gordon Family my deepest sympathy on the loss of your father. I am sure God has a place set a side for a true man who has shown a genuine concern for his fellow man and women.

   A fond memory I have is when I was hired and came to GR for orientation, we did a bingo game having to get names on our card. A distinguished gentleman was walking down the hall into the room and I rushed up and asked him to sign my bingo card. Not knowing I had just asked Paul Gordon to become part of the bingo game. Not only did he sign my card, but he engaged me in conversation asking my name, the department I would be working in, and my thoughts of GFS. During the week I had the opportunity to run into Paul Gordon several times and not only did he know who I was, he asked me if GFS and the managment team was taking care of me. If not he wanted to know and he was sincere with this statement. Where else can you have gone and have the Chariman of GFS sign a bingo card, remember your name and ask if you are being taken care of by management. You could feel in his voice that he was truly concerned about the well being of not just me but the group as a whole. He practiced what he preached, a true gentleman with a heart for his employees.

   I can only thank Paul Gordon for touching my life for those few days, his concern for my well being as a new employee, and showing me that Grodon Food Services was and is truly a company built upon Christian values.

   He can be proud of the legacy he has left behind and will continue to be built upon for years to come. He will be missed by all. May God bless him and grant him eternal peace and my God provide his healing grace to the Gordon Family in this time of need.

   ~ Tom Krebs F/C 5-7-08, May 7th, 2008

10. Paul was an amazing person. The few times I had the chance to talk with Paul, he always looked right in my eye and always gave his 100% attention to me. God Bless Paul and the Gordon Family.

    ~ Anonymous, May 7th, 2008

11. Almost 29 years ago, I was fortunate enough to become an employee of Gordon Food Service. From day one you are not just recognized as an employee but as a member of the Gordon Family. From my days in the warehouse, I’ll always remember Paul walking the aisles and making a point to greet each person along the way. While in procurement, Paul was always willing to give his opinion and had a memory like a steel trap. If an error was made, he found a way to bring it up in only his style. Sometimes this was 2 years later….Again the memory bank. I’ve always admired the humbleness of the Gordon Family. About 8 years ago I ran into Paul in the hallway. He asked how I was getting to the Ft. Wayne meeting that evening. I asked If he needed a ride and 2 hours later he jumped in the car with myself and two other employees. We had the most enjoyable conversation for the next two hours. Paul has left us with many fond memories and while I know he’s in a better place, his legacy and humbleness will be carried on by his cherished family members and his faithful employees. We’ll miss you Paul….

    ~ Gordy Mouw, May 7th, 2008, May 7th, 2008

12. MR GORDON you will be missed more than words can say you new all our names and were always such a nice person to me it was always GO BLUE and a nice word so i hope you and BO have a great life you will be so missed.

    ~ john l hubert clay ave, May 7th, 2008

13. I was honored to meet Paul during my two years working the graphics department when we took a team-building retreat at Gull Lake Ministries. He was such a caring and sincere man. I was very impressed by him. It was refreshing to meet a man who had “made it” and still truly remembered how he got there. He was also so much fun to be around, joking around with us. He took us all for ice cream across the lake. We all got on a pontoon boat and headed across the lake. It started to rain a little but we continued on. While we were getting ice cream the rain really started coming down. We were about ready to have people come and pick us up in vans when the rain stopped. We all gathered back onto the boat and as we were heading back Paul looked up and saw the canvas above us had filled with water, he raised his cane and pushed up on the water bulge causing the water to pour over one of my coworkers who was sitting next to him. He got such a kick out of it and we all had a good laugh, even the one who got the water poured over her. I thank the Lord for blessing my life with my brief time with Paul. Although I only met him the one time, I was very impressed by his sincerity, how humble he was, and how much he loved the Lord.

    ~ ~ Thom Adams, DPC, May 7th, 2008, May 7th, 2008

14. I celebrated 12 yrs of working for GFS yesterday, I feel blessed to be a part of this wonderful family and only wish I could have been with them for the last 40 yrs. It has been an amazing ride with this great company. My wife and I were honored to be on the Alaska trip with Paul and Dottie in 2005 and to share a fantastic time with all. We were also pleased that Paul and Dottie came to Columbus to speak with us this past December. It has been a such a pleasure to help share the values of this company with so many in WV and Ohio and to see this company grow and yet remain true to its beliefs, roots and principals. He will be missed! We can only hope to use all that he taught us in life and work. Thank you for allowing us to be part of this great group.

    ~ Mike and Terri Strimer, May 7th, 2008

15. Having met Paul on a several occasions and witnessing how he interacted with others was truly amazing. Paul, in words, thoughts, and deeds sincerley loved his fellow man. I hesitate to say “Goodbye”, but instead, ” See you later”.

    ~ Anonymous, May 7th, 2008

16. Paul always took the time to stop in the hallway just to say hello and to see how I and my family were doing. He asked not to be polite but because he truly wanted to know how everyone was doing. He made me feel like I was home from the the day I started with the company.

    One trip I happen to be coming back to the Kent County airport at the same time as Paul and Dottie. He had parked his car else where or was dropped off. (most likely to save on the parking expense) Our plane was very late coming back to GR. I over heard Paul calling different people to see about a late night ride home. I told him he could take my car (a GFS car) he told me no, and to get home to my family. I offered them a ride home he again said no, and to hurry up and get home to my family. I’m not sure how he and Dottie ended up getting home, but he was more concerned with me getting home to my family, and less concerned with how they would get home.

    I will always remember Paul his sense of homor, his love for our Lord, and his genuine caring heart.

    ~ Chuck Jones-Grand Rapids, May 7th, 2008

17. As I come before the Lord in prayer, I pray for the Gordon Family.I am thankful that Paul Gordon trusted in Jesus Christ as his Savior and someday we will rejoice together in Heaven. What a day that will be.

    ~ Burdell Gilley, May 7th, 2008

18. I never had the opportunity to meet Mr. Gordon personally, but I respect his acheivements. I would like to give my condolences to his family.

    ~ THE BLOCH'S & THE MILLERS AT MILLER'S TIME OUT, BATTLE CREEK, May 7th, 2008

19. Were does one begin…………having been apart of the Gordon Family now for 27 years, I had the opportunity to interview with Paul, actually he sat down at a food show and interviewed both Sharon and me. What an honest treat that was that he had enough interest in my spouse to ask her to be a part of the process. I knew right away this is the place I wanted to serve.
    We have had the opportunity to share business times and pleasure times with Paul and Dottie, what a treat to share in those moments and we are so thankful. Paul would always ask about the kids by name and was always interested in there lives and activities also.
    When I think of Paul, I think of his generosity and his heart to serve the Lord worldwide. He has blessed so many and surely blessed our home with his love.

    Thank you for your love and all the memories.

    ~ Tom Snivley, May 7th, 2008

20. My wife Jan and I were fortunate to attend the Olympics in 1996 with Paul and Dottie. We have great memories and feel very blessed just to spend time with such a godly man and his wife. Paul was the last to bed, the first to rise and was full of energy. He wore us younger people to a frazzle! Paul was a champion in his own right. He served us well modeling compassion, humility and taught us by example how to serve others. We feel blessed to have known Paul Gordon! As Paul left this earth I am sure he heard the words, “Well done thou good and faithful servant!” Look around my child great is your reward. Paul, thank you for giving to the Lord, I am a life that was changed!!

    Until we meet again!

    ~ Keith Griffin, May 7th, 2008

21. The first time I met Mr. Paul was in Grand Rapids, following a business transaction that brought Distal(Canadian based company) into the GFS family.
    It was around noon and Mr. Paul came in to the board room,shook hand and welcomed us to Grand Rapids and we immediatly left for lunch.As I was taking place into the minivan en route to the restaurant, Mr. Paul turned to me and the first question he asked was: ”Talk to me about the Distal charitable foundation”I remember thinking to myself: ”we have just concluded a financial transaction worth a fairly great amount of dollars and he does’nt seem to be worried about his investment, but he rather he wants to know more about our charitable foundation.Genuine,charitable,interested in the well being of people.With Mr.Paul,people came first everywhere and everytime.

    ~ Richard Auger / Distal, May 7th, 2008

22. I had the pleasure of meeting Paul a few times at the food shows in Grand Rapids. His smile lit up the whole auditorium. The first time I met him he spoke to me as if we had know each other all of our lives. I truly felt embraced buy his genuine love. Men like him are one in a million and the way he touched my life will never be forgotten. I will miss you Paul.

    ~ Jeff Graczyk, CDS Lansing, Ill., May 7th, 2008

23. I always admired Paul’s genuineness and sincerity of who he was and his respect for others. He helped build this company with the interests of others at the forefront while maintaining God as his guide. He always managed to proclaim God’s word whether it be in GFS, his missionary work, church or family and friends. He has positively touched many, many people during his years here on earth, with many, many more yet to come. He has that rippling effect. I thank him for touching mine!

    ~ Mike Garr, May 7th, 2008

24. Paul Gordon is an icon in the foodservice industry not only for his accomplishments, but for how he accomplished things. His caring and compassionate nature were unparalleled. He sought out new-hires to ease their minds during their first days with GFS, giving us each condifence and the understanding of how different GFS is. He molded and recreated a culture begun over 100 years ago.

    If he told us once he told each of us thousands of times: “This is a people business. Get to know our customers and what they need. Above all listen to the customer.”

    Godspeed and rest easy; you have laid the foundation for what will continue to be built in your honor.

    ~ robert call-chicago sales, May 7th, 2008

25. I never personally met Paul but a few things he wrote and said have stuck with me. When he read a passage out of his book of prayers last year during his speech at the OHV division annual meeting it really gave an insight to the man he is. It takes strength and courage to live the christian life outwardly. The other thing that really jerked at my heart was his final letter he wrote to all of us. When he said that though his time here on earth seemed to be uncertain, that we could be assured that his eternity is already taken care of. Praise God, that really put a lump in my throat. As sad as it is for us to be without Paul, i just remember that he went home to be with the Lord. I’m sure that was what he lived for.

    ~ Brandon H. OHV, May 7th, 2008

26. My wife and I were some of the very fortunate few to spend a week with Paul and Dottie in Cabo St Lucas Mexico last year. Every time I would thank Paul he would say “No thank you”. But if you knew the man you would not be suprised. He is absolutely the Greatest! Thanks again for the memories Paul!
    Pam and I have you in our prayers.

    ~ Jim Tufts Jr., May 7th, 2008

27. When I remember Paul Gordon, I remember a man who lived for his Lord and shared his beliefs openly. His warmth for others and genuine care for people is legendary. My life is blessed to have known him and his family and to be able to work for a company led by a man with such integrity. My prayers are with his family as they mourn the loss of such a great example for us all.

    ~ Tom Alphenaar, May 7th, 2008

28. I feel blessed to know a man like Paul Gordon. Everytime I seen Paul, which was only a handful of times, he had a smile on his face, and was the “life of the crowd”. May we all emulate such a joyous, successful and family oriented person like Paul Gordon.

    ~ Mike Cave, May 7th, 2008

29. I first met Paul at the age of 17 after being with GFS for only a few months. Even thought I didn’t understand much about the company, I knew instantly that he was different…he had a glow in his eye and was so warm and positive. From that moment I knew I was working for someone and something very special. He said after introduction “If he’s a good worker, we’ll find a place for him”. Little did I know then it was his promise to me that he never broke. Even at 17, those words struck me very deeply as I really needed an opportunity to feel a part of something better…that I could contribute, learn and provide some sense of value. From that day, I held on and never looked back. He’s still speaking those words to me today - 25 years later.

    His legacy will continue teaching and comforting us all.

    ~ Jon Zimmerlee, May 7th, 2008

30. We simply smile when we think of Paul and the blessings he has added to our lives. His humor and love of people are why we call Gordon Food Service home. The culture he not only spoke of but actually lived each day will be with us forever and the legacy he has left will live on in his family.

    ~ Jerry and Teri Mercier, May 7th, 2008

31. I had started in the Springfield plant, and I was a new packer at the time and Paul did not hesitate to enter my trailer and give me a hand. I had since transferred to the Shepherdsville plant. On his first visit to Shepherdsville, Ron Maxim stopped to introduce us, but there would be no “new introduction” Paul had already knew who I was.

    Paul was a great person and will dearly be missed. May the Lord welcome you home Paul.

    ~ Gary Shinkle, May 7th, 2008

32. Galatians 5 vs 7: The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.
    Paul Gordon lived these words.

    ~ Anonymous, May 7th, 2008

33. I remember once Mr. Paul Gordon came in my store when I first started as a sales associate, I walked up to him and asked if I could help him with anything. He smiled and said no, I’m Paul Gordon. He stood there and talked to me for about 15 minutes. I felt like he was just another member of my family. He will be missed dearly.

    ~ Jake Mannon, MP OH, May 7th, 2008

34. Just wanted to send my condolences to the Gordon Family and share an experience I had with Paul Gordon. I joined the company 6 years ago and was very excited at joining this company that was growing quickly. In my first couple of weeks of starting with the company I was honoured to have lunch with Paul Gordon and was amazed at what a kind man this was. He was always concerned about the employees and there family. I had never come across a man in that position that truly cared alot about people as Paul did. To this day I try to keep that feeling that he sends out there with people and truly love what the day brings you and enjoy everthing around you. For that reason I have so much respect for him and will always be thankfull for that simple lesson in life. You will be missed Paul but your legend will live on through all of us.

    ~ Michael D. GLE, May 7th, 2008

35. I’ve been with GFS for about 3 years and never had the opportunity to meet Paul, I’ve heard a lot about him from people that have. I would just like to add my condolences to the Gordon family.

    ~ Mike M, May 7th, 2008

36. The very first time I met Paul Gordon, I was a young “know it all” attending Taylor University with a guy named Dan Gordon. I’ll never forget thinking that he treated me like he had known me all of my life and that he was so genuinely pleased to meet me……..wow. I am grateful to be connected with the Paul Gordon family. It is amazing to think of the people that he has influenced in his life - What a race he has run -

    ~ JMess from Ashland, Ohio, May 7th, 2008

37. When Paul would visit Springfield and I would see him walking towards me, I could feel that love and caring that he had for people. My heart would always be happy after a conversation with Paul. What better legacy could you leave than a family that loves God and mankind. I’m striving to one day be in heaven too (not soon) - but I want see Paul and hear him say “Well hi Maxine!”
    God Bless you Gordon family!!

    ~ Maxine Brydie, May 7th, 2008

38. Many have heard me say this for over 30 years, “Next to my own family, I love the Gordon’s the most”! Paul and Dottie have been beacons for all of us to really know how to treat people, and how to raise a wonderful family trusting in our Lord.

    ~ Dan and Karen Robertson, May 7th, 2008

39. When I came to work for GFS and learned the story of the family and heritage that is this great company I soon relized that Paul Gordon was one of the true reason that made it so wonderful to be a part of GFS. He was a truely insperational figure in my life, a lesson learned from Paul Gordon is that achievements and success are great things to have in ones life, but to achive personal intergrity, generosity and understanding are much greater rewards that one can hold on to

    Thanks Paul, you will be missed

    ~ Ryan Paturalski, Central States, May 7th, 2008

40. My husband always described Paul Gordon as a sincere, honest and caring person. One in a million. It always amazed us that he knew everyone’s name when he shook their hand at the annual meetings. The company kept growing and growing and yet, Paul still knew everyone’s name. He truly cared about his employees and he proved that to me with his many personal phone calls and ultimately when he and his wife drove from Grand Rapids to Jackson to attend my husband’s funeral service. I know Tim thanked Paul when he greeted him in heaven. My thoughts and prayers are with the Gordon family.

    ~ Debbie Naylor, May 7th, 2008

41. Paul,
    A man who lived what he preached and whose preaching will live on through others. Thank you for being this role model.

    ~ Mark B., May 7th, 2008

42. Paul has touched me in many ways and what a great man of God and he lived his life as a testimony of Jesus Christ livivng in him.I can’t wait to meet him in again in heaven!!!!!! My prayers go out to the Gordon Family as they grieve the loss of a great man!!!!!!!

    ~ Anonymous, May 7th, 2008

43. Paul would always greet me with a smile and handshake, I will miss his laughter.

    God opened his arms and said “Well Done my good and Faithful Servant”!!

    May the Lord comfort you in this time of sorrow.

    ~ Beth Wyn, May 7th, 2008

44. My favorite thing about Paul Gordon was his approachability. I twice had the chance to talk with him about some work I was doing with my church and in the mission field, and he was so genuinely interested and supportive. Even before he knew why I was coming to see him, he welcomed me into his office and made it seem like he had nothing more important to do than spend a few minutes talking with me. I’ve since left GFS to work in higher education, but I will always remember my time there with fondness, especially when I think about the Gordons in particular. I look forward to seeing what Paul is in charge of and how it is thriving when I join him in Our Father’s Kingdom.

    ~ Dean Thayer (GFS empl. 1998-2005), May 7th, 2008

45. The first experience I had with Paul was at our first Annual Meeting and we had just gotten our nametags. Paul introduced himself and we did the same. Everyone went along and the evening was great. One year later we arrived and Paul was around. He came over to us and knew our names. I thought that was so neat that he was able to remember that. It meant a ton to us. Thank you Paul for making a difference in so many ways.

    ~ Anonymous, May 7th, 2008

46. My favorite memory of Paul was when he addressed my orientation class and shared some of his memories of the fun, exciting and touching experiences he had as a member of the Gordon Family. He just sat and spoke with us as if we were simply sitting in his living room talking about good times. His warmth, caring and generous spirit were evident that day and are truly evident in his children. While Paul has left this earth, his legacy will live on within his family and the extended Gordon Family. I’m truly proud to work for GFS and am honored to have met Paul.

    ~ Chris Dukes, May 7th, 2008

47. Mr. Paul was a wonderful person. I always enjoyed seeing him at meetings and food shows and listening to him tell stories of how GFS became the company it is today. He was a very special person and will remain in our hearts forever. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.

    ~ Claudia Beam (Central States), May 7th, 2008

48. I met paul the first time in GR taking a break at orientation paul started talking to us in hallway. he was attending a meeting and they were telling lets go, and his response was I will be there when I am done talking. that memory continued many years as paul always was there with a hello and great conversation. thank you

    ~ big jon toledo maumee, May 7th, 2008

49. I first met Paul at orientation in GR 4 years ago. My first impression of Paul was of a man of the people. He sat on the edge of a table and spoke to all of us in the orientation like we were all old friends. I thought wow, this man has his name on the front of a building I work in and you’d never guess it was him. No suit. Just a person talking to other people. He’s leaving a legacy of people…….
    I only hope we all can continue to be great steward’s of Paul’s legacy.
    To the Gordon Family, I offer comfort in knowing that Paul is with his Lord and Savior. To Paul I say thank you.

    ~ Terri Hiser - Lima MP Mgr., May 7th, 2008

50. Although I’ve seen Paul many times over my 8 years here, last Summer at the Annual Picnic held in Grand Rapids I took the time, with another co-worker, to sit and talk with him. I think we talked for 30 minutes or so, maybe more, while he ate. We didn’t just talk about work, but anything - he treated us like we were his Granddaughters. When he was done eating, we both walked him back to his car, and like my own Grandfather, he gave me a hug goodbye. I will always remember that moment, because not only was I really impressed with the way he treated me, I was more than an employee in this large company - I was a person who mattered, but it was also the last time I got to see him. Paul made an impact on every life he chose to touch - and it was a lot, and I know for sure that I will miss him.

    ~ Virginia (Grand Rapids), May 7th, 2008

51. According to the my church, a saint is one who is sanctified, as it translates in the Authorised King James Version (1611) II Chronicles VI:41

    “Now therefore arise, O LORD God, into thy resting place, thou, and the ark of thy strength: let thy priests, O LORD God, be clothed with salvation, and let thy saints rejoice in goodness.”

    Mr. Gordon was as saintly as anyone I knew and set a wonderful example of how life should be lived. He will be truly missed.

    ~ Tim Butler, May 7th, 2008

52. I will always remember the speech he gave at the 2007 Ohio Valley Division’s annual meeting.
    He was such an awsome example to all of us. Life on Earth is short, Eternity is forever.
    He took every opportunity to share his faith boldly, in action and in word.

    I am confident the words: “Well done, my good and faithful servant”
    were spoken to him today.

    ~ Brad House, May 7th, 2008

53. Uncle Paul had a way of making any one that he came in contact with, feel very special to him. Whenever I would see him I always got a big hug! He always had a funny comment and that deep throaty laugh of his…I can still hear it! One of a kind. I’ll miss him for now, but we will see him later!

    ~ Suzette (Grand Rapids), May 7th, 2008

54. Whenever I think of Paul Gordon it brings a smile to my face. I was lucky enough to be given the honor to go on the people of the year trip with Paul and Dottie. Not only was it an amazing trip, but the experience with Paul was incredible. It was great to see how much he truly cares about a person not just as an employee, but as an individual. The trip included so many different adventures that kept us going from morning to night. I was amazed with Paul’s energy and excitement throughout the entire trip. I believe Paul was 80 years old at the time and sometimes I felt he was moving along faster then I was. Paul and his family should be very proud of the life he lived. He will be missed.

    ~ Amy Mix, May 7th, 2008

55. I only met Paul Gordon a few times, but the light that shined out from him impacted everyone in his presence. No thing, situation or disease can ever take his expression away. This is why he remains with us in our hearts. Paul Gordon is a true exemplificatoin of the expression of the Christ.

    ~ Scott Bennett, May 7th, 2008

56. Paul Gordon had a way of making anyone feel at ease in his presence. He was a wonderful example of God’s love and grace no matter where he went. He truely lived by the Word. I will always be greatful to him for the beautiful way he displayed the influence of the Holy Spirit in his life, and that I am free to do the same here at GFS. I will miss him a great deal.
    May the family feel the assurance he felt as he went home!

    ~ Theresa Cheyne, May 7th, 2008

57. To the Gordon Family and the GFS family - my condolences to all of you. Paul was such an influence on any of us who worked with and for him. He made such a difference in my life by always displaying his care for customers and employees, and his business and personal integrity. If anyone lived his Faith, it was Paul. I have always been touched by the mission trips he took with his grandchildren. What a legacy and example for all of us.

    Thank you God for sharing him with us. We are better people for knowing him.

    ~ Linda Miller, May 7th, 2008

58. Year after Year Paul would always remember my family and each of there names, and thank both them and myself for all the effort. A true man of his word and belief, you will be missed but not forgotten, THANKYOU FOR EVERYTHING.

    ~ Jeff Dew, May 7th, 2008

59. I am personally blessed to work with this amazing company. The Gordon family is just that, family. Your commitment to your faith, the foundation in which you have built Gordon Food Service and the fact that you never wavier from either stands apart. I had the privilege of speaking to Paul a couple of times and also have my picture taken with him dressed like a king at our 2006 FFS in Grand Rapids. Thank you for allowing me to hitch my wagon to yours. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Enjoy eternity with Jesus, Paul. You will be missed.

    ~ Deb Daniels, Grand Rapids, MI, May 7th, 2008

60. Though I’m sure he would not admit it, I owe much of my life and successes to Paul Gordon and his family. After all, we are very lucky to be working for such a great organization embodied by the pholosophies and values of the Gordon family. God Bless them and Paul, and thank you

    ~ Mike H. (GLE), May 7th, 2008

61. My condolences go out to the entire Gordon Family. I had the honor of meeting Paul at my orientation. I could tell right away he was a wise man with a good sense of humor. I am truly blessed that I had the opportunity to meet him. He will be missed. Blessed Be Paul! May you rise to the heavens and the gods bring you back down.

    ~ Cassandra P (GR, MI), May 7th, 2008

62. I met Mr. Gordon 11yrs ago while I was working at Clay Ave. warehouse. It just happened to be my first day when he was going through the warehouse. I was selecting cases in the cooler and he came up and introduced himself and talked with me for 30 minutes. It really impressed me that the owner of the company would take that much time to talk to someone in 35 degrees. 9years later I had the chance to shake his hand at the annual meeting and he still remebers that day. He was an amazing man and he will truly be missed.

    ~ Jim Gustavsen-CAD-Ocala, May 7th, 2008

63. My heartfelt prayers go out to you and the entire Gordon family. May he rest in the Peace of Christ, and the peace of Christ rest upon you all, especially during this time of loss.

    ~ Ralph C, May 7th, 2008

64. For over 20 years now I always found myself looking forward to seeing Paul at the food shows, and other company gatherings. His “Hi Rick” and warm smile always made me feel a part of the Gordon family. Pauls devotion to serving the customer has, and will always inspire me to do the same.

    ~ Rick Miller Fort Wayne, May 7th, 2008

65. Paul was a prime example of the concept of servant leadership.

    I work on the second floor of the 333 building in Grand Rapids. I remember one summer day about five or six years ago. It was mid-afternoon, and I was working at my desk when I heard bells coming down the hallway. Paul Gordon was making the rounds with an old fashioned ice cream vendor’s push cart - complete with bells. Even though we were working in an air conditioned environment, he wanted to make sure that everyone enjoyed some ice cream on a hot summer day.
    That was just one small example of how he treated everyone like they were important. He truly appreciated his employees, and he treated us all like people deserving of common courtesy and respect - not just a nameless, faceless tool to be used up and discarded like so many other businesses today. He led by example, and if we learned anything from him, then we are all better for having known him.

    ~ Bart Johnson, May 7th, 2008

66. My wife and I were blessed to have known such a man as Paul. He was a great peron who practiced what he preached. We admired that quality in him. We will never forget the night he and Mrs. Gordon shared our table at the beach party in Florida. He was the life of the party. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family through this time of loss.

    ~ Ray McMillen, May 7th, 2008

67. A wonderful person to work for. But even a more wonderful humanitarian. God bless you Paul!! You will be missed.

    ~ Matt Yardley, May 7th, 2008

68. To me, Paul was someone who always spoke from the heart. When he would say that the people at GFS were like part of his family, I think that was much more than words.

    ~ Anonymous, May 7th, 2008

69. My prayers are with you and the Gordon family. May God bless and keep each and everyone of you is my prayers. The angels in heaven are dancing and singing to have such a great man in their present.

    ~ Betty Cook-Miami Division, May 7th, 2008

70. Thank you for your servant leadership, your humble sincerity, and your Christian example to all of us. Your legacy is truly your greatest gift to us all.

    ~ Jay F (GR, MI), May 7th, 2008