In loving memory of

Charles Bruce Gordon
March 21, 1952 - July 10, 2018

Charles Bruce Gordon
March 21, 1952 - July 10, 2018

Charley passed away with loving family at his side after a brief battle with cancer. The third of four boys, Charley grew up on Horsehead Bay in the Gig Harbor area and graduated with a science degree from the UW. Putting that degree to use, he soon began a long career as a fisherman in Alaska. For most of his adult life, Charley spent the better part of each year in Bristol Bay and other Alaskan fishing grounds, catching salmon, halibut, herring, and others. It was extremely hard work, and didn't make for an easy life, but Charley loved it and believed fishing to be a most noble profession.

As if captaining the Equinox wasn't enough, Charley added on by developing a straight-to-market, fresh frozen fish business called Finest Kind Seafoods. Charley worked tirelessly to build a regional customer base and proved himself a successful salesman and entrepreneur. Charley also took up wood turning, and created beautiful vases, bowls, and other objects.

Charley split his heart between the wild waters of Alaska and the tranquil beauty of Vashon Island, where he lived for nearly 40 years. Friends from childhood, the Bristol Bay fishing community, and those close to him at home will remember Charley's big heart, generosity and thoughtfulness, inimitable work ethic, creativity and artistry, and indefatigable optimism.

Charley was a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, and he will be missed dearly by them all. Brothers David (Lyn), Steve (Julie), Gavin (Lia), and nieces (Jayme, Jenni, and Ciera) thank the medical staff and others who helped make his last days as comfortable as possible. Charley was preceded in death by his parents, Dave and Betty Gordon. He also leaves four great-grand nephews and a great-grand niece, all of whom held a special place in his heart.

Charley's family will hold a Celebration of Life service on August 26, 2:00 p.m. at the Vashon Community Care Center on Vashon Island. Address is 15333 Vashon Hwy. S.W., 98070. All friends and loved ones are invited and welcome to come.

Tributes

Karl Peterson wrote on Aug 1, 2018:

"I went to Jr & Sr High w/ Chas. We played in band as well as a band together. He was indeed the nicest guy around and most dependable. We talked last at a reunion a year ago and I wish we could have spent more time together in our later years. Karl Peterson Gig Harbor"

Cherry kempston wrote on Jul 22, 2018:

"I first met and talked to Charlie when he would come to visit his mother (my mom, Jo Gough, was at the same adult care home.) My husband and I really enjoyed our conversations with him. I loved it that Charlie and his brothers came to visit their mom, Betty, even when she wasn?t saying more than a few words. Thankful to Charlie and his brothers for their kind and faithful care and love for their mother. "

Jan Stephens wrote on Jul 20, 2018:

"I first met Charlie when we were students at the UW. Charlie was always a kind gentleman and a very fun guy to hang with. Although we were both Vashon residents, I had no idea about his recent illness and was truly heartbroken when I saw the news in our local paper. The world could a few more "Charlies". It sure hurts to know he has passed. Charlie will always be a big positive in my memories and not forgotten."

N Darlene Madenwald, RN wrote on Jul 19, 2018:

"I was Charlie's RN Complex Case Manager Nurse at Kaiser and I loved talking to him and loved helping try to coordinate his care the last few months of his life. He always wanted me to call and ask for "Captain Charlie," which I proudly did. He loved his family and talked of you all often. May his spirit be at peace now. N. Darlene Madenwald, RN Case Manager, Kaiser Care Management Program"

Jan Lyell wrote on Jul 18, 2018:

"In the oh so short years I new Charlie he alway had a smile on his and a very happy hello, I will miss Charlie very much. God Bless you Charlie R.I.P. your Barber Jan???"

Wende Hill wrote on Jul 16, 2018:

"So very sorry for the loss of one of the most Kindest, sweetest, most generous man I have ever had the pleasure of knowing! My heart is heavy with sadness! I am greatful for the many memories of him. Rest In Peace Captain Charlie! You will be missed!!!"

Andrea Wells wrote on Jul 14, 2018:

"Sincerest condolences to Dave, Steve, Gavin, family, loved ones and friends. May your spirit rest in peace Cawbon ? you loved us well ... When the morning breaks and the sunlight warms my soul In the East the Eagle flies, and the Red Tail proudly soars I'm on my way to the place of the spirit one ?.. When the sun goes down and it grows too dark to see I look within to the Shaman's mysteries I'm on my way to die and live again ?.. Turn toward the South, like the water I will run In innocence and trust the Moonchild's song is sung I'm on my way to the place of the sacred plants ?.. In the deepest night the stars watch over me Old Woman of the North my mind seeks clarity I'm on my way to the place of the Northern winds Let the Thunder and the Lightning carry me Lay my thoughts to rest and send me into sleep With the Hawk and the Buffalo My dreams white crystal magic medicine ~ Kate Wolf ~ Medicine Wheel ~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u0PVkw2KBV0 "